Evans Secures Landmark Win and Expands WRC Points Lead at Safari Rally Kenya
Elfyn Evans clinched victory at the Safari Rally Kenya, achieving a commanding lead in the WRC standings with a 36-point advantage. His win came after overcoming various challenges and reinforces his status as a key contender this season. Hyundai drivers, while facing difficulties, also achieved notable performances in the rally.
Elfyn Evans secured a significant victory at the Safari Rally Kenya, solidifying his position in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) title chase. Driving a Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 alongside co-driver Scott Martin, Evans won by 1 minute and 9.9 seconds ahead of Hyundai’s Ott Tanak, marking his second win of the season. With this victory, he set the largest championship lead recorded after three WRC rounds, totaling a 36-point advantage.
The rugged four-day event, commencing in Nairobi, took teams through Kenya’s challenging Great Rift Valley, featuring rough terrain, deep dust, and unpredictable weather. Evans took the lead late on Friday after Tanak encountered a broken driveshaft issue. Despite facing tire deflations and managing an electrical problem, Evans maintained his lead, becoming only the third British driver to triumph in the Safari since its integration into the WRC.
Evans expressed elation over his achievement, noting, “An amazing rally, I have to say. Huge well done to the team – they did an amazing job…” His Hyundai competitors, including reigning champion Thierry Neuville, faced hurdles, with Neuville finishing in third after incurring time penalties throughout the event. This outcome represented Hyundai’s best-ever performance in the Safari Rally.
Kalle Rovanpera’s attempt for a Toyota 1-2 ended as he dropped to fifth due to suspension damage, retiring on Sunday from electrical faults. Takamoto Katsuta narrowly missed a fourth-place finish due to a last-minute roll, placing him fifth instead. Other notable performances include Gregoire Munster, who finished sixth, and Gus Greensmith, who triumphed in WRC2 after his rival’s costly error.
Looking ahead, the WRC will travel to the Canary Islands for the upcoming Rally Islas Canarias, taking place from April 24-27. The move to an all-asphalt rally will provide a new challenge for drivers and teams alike in the ongoing championship season.
Evans’s win at the Safari Rally Kenya not only marked a career highlight but also established a substantial lead in the WRC standings. His ability to navigate difficult terrain and overcome mechanical issues underscores his skill and determination in rally racing. As the championship progresses to the Canary Islands, the competition in WRC is sure to intensify, with Evans leading both in points and momentum.
Original Source: racer.com
