Ogier leads Rally Portugal over Tänak with sights set on a new record

Sebastien Ogier leads the Rally de Portugal after a day filled with technical and tactical challenges. Despite the adversities faced by his team, Toyota Gazoo Racing, Ogier manages to maintain a margin over his Hyundai Motorsport rival, Ott Tänak, as both prepare for the final day of the event.

Saturday at the Rally de Portugal was characterized by numerous changes in the standings, with Ogier taking the lead after a series of challenging stages that tested the most experienced drivers. The competition between Ogier and Tänak intensified, marked by a strategic battle where every second is crucial. Tänak, however, faced difficulties with a deflated tire, costing him valuable time and allowing Ogier to extend his lead.

The setbacks were not limited to Tänak. Kalle Rovanperä, Ogier's teammate at Toyota, lost his early morning lead after an error in a corner that left him out of contention. Similar luck befell Takamoto Katsuta, who suffered damage to his vehicle that prevented him from continuing.

Meanwhile, Thierry Neuville from Hyundai took advantage to improve his position, climbing up the leaderboard and placing himself behind Tänak. Neuville and Dani Sordo, also from Hyundai, showed consistency throughout the day, finishing in strong positions that allow them to stay in the fight for valuable points in the championship.

With only one day remaining and several stages left to race, Ogier seeks to secure a victory that would not only give him his sixth triumph in Portugal but could also set a new record in this historic event. The tension is high, and the drivers are ready to face the challenges of the final day, which promises to be decisive for the championship outcome.

The rally concludes on Sunday with four more stages, covering a total of 62.18 kilometers.