Toyota Confirms Sebastien Ogier for Acropolis Rally Greece
Toyota has officially announced that eight-time World Rally Champion Sebastien Ogier will join its line-up for the upcoming Acropolis Rally Greece, taking place from September 5-8. This move is seen as a strategic decision to boost Toyota’s chances of retaining its WRC constructors’ title.
As part of its line-up, Toyota will field three GR Yaris Rally1s, with Ogier teaming up with full-time drivers Elfyn Evans and Takamoto Katsuta. This will mark Ogier’s second appearance at the Acropolis Rally, following his 10th-place finish last year, where he led the event before being forced to retire due to mechanical issues.
Although Ogier’s plans beyond Greece remain uncertain, the Frenchman has hinted at the possibility of contesting the remaining four events in Chile, Central Europe, and Japan. With 27 points separating him from championship leader Thierry Neuville, Ogier is under pressure to perform. So far, he has competed in six events this year, securing three wins and three second-place finishes.
“I think we’re going to have more and more pressure to do that [the rest of the year and going for the title] anyway, inside me, I don’t really have it yet, this wish, this feeling because I don’t value those things [titles] as much as people think maybe.”
Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala has explicitly asked Ogier to participate in more events, emphasizing the importance of keeping the championship fight alive. Latvala said:
“With Seb, I have mentioned that I would like him to drive more events. I’m waiting for his answer, but I think the chance he is now in the championship as he is second, we should try to keep the fight on and let him drive all the events.”
As the WRC championship heats up, Toyota will head to Greece trailing Hyundai by 20 points in the manufacturers’ standings. With Ogier’s addition to the line-up, Toyota is gearing up for an intense battle to reclaim the top spot.
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