Sébastien Ogier, eight-time world rally champion, has left open the possibility of competing in all the remaining rounds of the WRC 2024. Although he initially decided to participate in only a few events, his position in the championship and pressure from his team, Toyota GAZOO Racing, have led him to reconsider his approach. Just 27 points behind leader Thierry Neuville, Ogier might be on the verge of embarking on a battle for his ninth title.
The 2024 WRC season has been unusual for Ogier, who had planned a limited schedule to focus on his personal life. However, after several standout performances and the unexpected situation in the championship, the outlook has changed. With four rounds remaining, including the confirmed participation in the Rally of Greece, it seems that the French driver has no intention of stepping away from the title fight.
Ogier has repeatedly expressed his dissatisfaction with the championship's new points system, suggesting that it might be devaluing true competition. Despite this, his consistency in the events he has competed in, with three wins and three second places, has positioned him as Neuville's main rival in the championship race.
Ogier's final decision on completing the season has been influenced not only by his performance but also by Toyota's insistence. The team has acknowledged that despite his reservations about the points system, keeping Ogier in the fight is crucial for their chances in the constructors' championship.
Sébastien Ogier finds himself in a dilemma between his personal priorities and the possibility of matching his compatriot Sébastien Loeb's record with a ninth world title. Meanwhile, his team and rally fans will be closely watching his decision, which could define the outcome of the 2024 WRC season. Ogier has made it clear that although the title is not his main motivation, his passion for the sport and competition remains strong, which could lead him to finish the season with a memorable performance.
Lancia returns to rallying with the Ypsilon Rally4 HF
Lancia returns to rallying and launches the Lancia Rally Trophy, while expanding in Europe with its new Ypsilon
Neuville and Tänak to battle it out for WRC title in Japan
Neuville vs Tänak! The WRC will define its champions in Japan
Ogier takes the lead after Neuville's mistakes in Central Europe Rally
The Belgian driver loses advantage due to two spins, while Ogier leads the penultimate round of the WRC.
Rovanperä wins in Rally Chile and Toyota gets closer to Hyundai in the championship
The Finnish driver overtook Evans under difficult conditions in Chile, bringing Toyota closer in the manufacturers' standings.
