Eight-time World Rally Champion Sebastian Ogier confirmed today that he would be attending the final three WRC events of the season.
Ogier’s Season So Far
Sebastian Ogier is the reigning WRC champion. Having won his eighth championship last season, which was also his eighth since 2013. Unfortunately, a title defence for Ogier in 2022 wasn’t possible as he would go to a part-time schedule at the beginning of the season. Ogier currently sits 11th overall in the WRC standings. Having only attended three events to this point. Those events were Rallye Monte-Carlo, Portugal and Safari Rally Kenya. Ogier has finished in the top five twice. Finishing second overall in Monte-Carlo and fourth in Kenya.
What Does This Mean For Lappi?
Sebastian Ogier has shared a car with Esapekka Lappi during the 2022 season. With Ogier now racing the final three events, it means Lappi’s season is pretty much over. Lappi will finish the 2022 season with 58 championship points. He currently sits seventh overall, 19 points behind Craig Breen. Lappi has podiumed three times this season, finishing third in Sweden, Finland and Belgium. Most recently Lappi finished 22nd overall in Greece after being forced to retire temporarily on day three. The retirement was believed to be due to bad fuel. Lappi sent much of Greece fighting in the top three.
What Does This Mean For Toyota?
The Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT currently sits first in the manufacturer’s championship, as well as first in the driver’s championship with Rovanperä. For much of the season, Toyota looked unbeatable. Unfortunately, they have been beaten as of late, losing the last three rallies, as well as failing to podium in Greece. Fortunately, Ogier will provide them with a steady hand the rest of the year, as well as a guy who can knock points off pretty much anybody. Ogier knows what it takes to win, as well as how to stay cool under pressure. This can be good for Toyota who is actively hunting down both titles.
My name is Joe Moore. I am a writer for Belly Up Hockey, Belly Up Racing, and Belly Up Sports. You can find me on Twitter.
