At the 2023 Rally Japan, the dynamic duo of Elfyn Evans and co-driver Scott Martin triumphed in four of the 22 challenging stages.
In a remarkable display of skill and speed, Elfyn Evans emerged victorious at Rally Japan, clinching the second position in the World Rally Championship (WRC).
At 34, Evans impressively outperformed his Toyota teammates, finishing a whole minute ahead of Sebastian Ogier and the WRC champion, Kalle Rovanpera.
This victory marks Evans’ third rally win this year, adding to his impressive resume as the WRC runner-up in 2020 and 2021, although he slipped to fourth place in 2022.
Reflecting on his victory, Evans expressed satisfaction, especially considering the previous year’s letdown. “It’s a wonderful feeling, especially after the disappointment we had last year,” he shared, after the conclusion of the final rally in 2023’s calendar.
Acknowledging the challenging weather conditions they faced, Evans praised his team for their excellent performance. “The conditions this week were tough, but we managed to build a significant lead by Friday night. A huge shoutout to the team; the car was exceptional, and achieving a 1-2-3 finish for Toyota on their home ground is something we’re all incredibly proud of,” he added.
Evans seized the lead during Rally Japan’s second stage, quickly gaining a substantial lead amidst the difficult wet conditions on Friday.
His primary competitor for the runner-up spot, Thierry Neuville, faced a setback when he crashed in the sixth stage, eliminating him from the race.
Meanwhile, Ogier, an eight-time world champion, incurred a one-minute penalty after delayed service due to necessary chassis repairs on his GR Yaris Rally1 car.
Evans’ final lead over Ogier was an impressive one minute and 17.7 seconds, with the young 23-year-old Rovanpera trailing by an additional 28.8 seconds.
The Welsh driver, along with his English co-driver Scott Martin, also celebrated victories at the Croatia Rally in April and the Rally Finland in August.
The provisional final standings of the FIA World Rally Championship post-Rally Japan are as follows:
- Kalle Rovanpera (Finland), Toyota – 250 points
- Elfyn Evans (Great Britain), Toyota – 216 points
- Thierry Neuville (Belgium), Hyundai – 189 points
- Ott Tanak (Estonia), Hyundai – 174 points
- Sebastien Ogier (France), Toyota – 133 points
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Elfyn Evans Rally Japan Victory
Who won the 2023 Rally Japan?
Elfyn Evans, alongside his co-driver Scott Martin, won the 2023 Rally Japan, marking his third rally victory of the year.
What was Elfyn Evans’ final position in the 2023 World Rally Championship?
Elfyn Evans secured the runner-up position in the 2023 World Rally Championship following his victory in Rally Japan.
How did Elfyn Evans perform compared to his teammates?
Elfyn Evans finished over a minute ahead of his Toyota teammates, Sebastian Ogier and the WRC winner Kalle Rovanpera, in Rally Japan.
Did Elfyn Evans lead the entire Rally Japan event?
Evans took the lead in the second stage of Rally Japan and maintained a comfortable advantage throughout the event, especially during challenging wet conditions on Friday.
What happened to Thierry Neuville during Rally Japan?
Thierry Neuville, Evans’ main rival for the second spot in the final championship standings, crashed out of contention during the sixth stage of Rally Japan.
What penalty did Sebastian Ogier receive during Rally Japan?
Sebastian Ogier, an eight-time world champion, was handed a one-minute penalty after leaving service late due to chassis repairs on his car.
What were Elfyn Evans’ other victories in 2023?
In addition to Rally Japan, Elfyn Evans also won April’s Croatia Rally and Rally Finland in August.
More about Elfyn Evans Rally Japan Victory
- World Rally Championship Official Site
- Toyota Gazoo Racing Team Updates
- Elfyn Evans’ Career Highlights and Statistics
- Rally Japan Event Recap and Analysis
- FIA WRC Final Standings and Points System
- Overview of Rally Finland and Croatia Rally Victories
- Thierry Neuville’s Rally Career and Performance
- Sebastian Ogier’s Rally Championship History
6 comments
That chassis repair penalty for Ogier, tough break. just shows how tight the regulations are, every second counts in rally.
reminds me of the old days, when drivers had to face all kinds of conditions. modern rally’s just as thrilling, Evans is proving it!
Rovanpera still the champ though, young and fast! Finn power all the way! can’t wait to see him in action next season.
man, feel bad for Neuville, crashing out like that. but that’s rally for you, unpredictable! next year’s gonna be his, i bet
Evans’ win in Japan’s just amazing, but let’s not forget those wet conditions, brutal for all drivers. hats off to them
wow, Evans really showed his class in Japan, totally dominated the rally! Toyota’s just unbeatable this year, right?