Elfyn Evans, leader of the World Rally Championship (WRC), has pointed out that the competition for the title remains «very open» after the cancellation of Rally Saudi Arabia. The Welsh driver has made it clear that he cannot afford to «take it easy» during the next round in Sardinia.
The cancellation has changed the dynamics of the championship, as the season will close earlier than expected in Sardinia, after the FIA and WRC decided not to replace the cancelled event, scheduled for November 11-14, due to the conflict in the region.
Evans, who currently has a 17-point lead over his teammate, Sami Pajari, and 21 points over Oliver Solberg, will see the title at stake when 35 points are contested in the last gravel event. Despite his favorable position, the Welshman is aware that he cannot relax.
«Ultimately, I think there is a lot of work underway to find a solution regarding the situation in Saudi Arabia. I understand that people are disappointed, but the decision to cancel was necessary to ensure safety,» Evans stated.
The driver also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating his rival, recalling the surprises that can occur, like the case of Oliver Solberg in Rally Chile. «We can’t afford to think that the championship situation gives us a safety margin. We must face Sardinia like any other rally,» he commented.
Finally, Evans expressed that he would have gladly accepted the inclusion of a substitute event. The cancellation of Saudi Arabia has been felt as a significant loss for the calendar, and both he and other competitors will have to adapt to an unexpected season finale.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI