Thrilling Finish at WRC’s Sprint Rally Concept Debut
The FIA World Rally Championship’s (WRC) debut of its new 48-hour sprint rally format was a thrilling affair, capped off by a nail-biting finish at Rally Monza. Ott Tanak of Hyundai narrowly edged out eight-time world champion Sebastien Ogier of Toyota by a scant 0.2 seconds, equalling the closest finish in WRC history set back in 2011.
Tanak’s victory came after a puncture in the final stage cost Ogier a likely win. The Frenchman had been leading much of the rally, but the late drama allowed Tanak to steal the top spot at the death.
Podium Finishers
“Hyundai’s Dani Sordo completed the podium in what may have been his 191st and final WRC start.”
Meanwhile, Thierry Neuville, the points leader, saw his championship advantage reduced to 18 points after a loss of concentration hampered his efforts.
Struggles for Evans
Toyota’s Elfyn Evans was unable to fully capitalize on Neuville’s Friday crash, struggling with his GR Yaris and ultimately tying Tanak in the championship chase.
The thrilling conclusion capped off the WRC’s first outing with its new compressed format, which the series hopes to introduce at more events next year. The shorter, 48-hour sprint-style event proved an exciting addition to the championship, showcasing the intense competition and drama that define the pinnacle of international rally racing.
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