Could this finally be Elfyn Evans’ year?

Since joining Toyota Gazoo Racing in 2020, the Welsh veteran and co-driver Scott Martin have finished as runners-up in the World Rally Championship no fewer than four times. Now, they’re back in the hunt – and this time, the crown could be within reach.

Heading into the final round, Evans and Martin lead the standings thanks to a blisteringly consistent season: every round finished in the top six, including two wins, six other podiums, and four straight second-place finishes in the last four events.

But it won’t be easy. Team-mate Sébastien Ogier is just three points behind after edging Evans in a nail-biting Rally Japan battle. Moreover the French star is chasing a record-equalling ninth World Championship, making him a dangerous rival.

Double champion Kalle Rovanperä is also in the mix, but 24 points adrift, he’ll need both Toyota team-mates to falter if he’s to claim a third title.

Adding to the drama, the championship will be decided on the all-new Rally Saudi Arabia – a completely unknown challenge for all drivers.

“We go to Saudi Arabia knowing that everything is still to play for,” said Evans. “Seb is performing at a really high level, and Kalle cannot be counted out either. It will be tough, but we’ll give it our best shot.

“Nobody really knows what to expect. None of the drivers have done it before, and many of the stages are brand new – a clean sheet for all of us. We just have to focus on doing the best rally we can and see what comes.”

If Evans finally lifts the crown, it would be a timely triumph, marking 30 years since Colin McRae became the first British WRC champion. And what better way to celebrate than with another British victory on the ultimate rally stage?

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