Elfyn Evans is the World Rally champion. The 37-year-old from Dolgellau took the crown after a dramatic final race of the season in Sardinia, becoming Britain's first rally world champion since Richard Burns 25 years ago.
Final-stage drama decides title
Evans had finished runner-up in the championship in five of the last six years. Despite taking a commanding lead into the final event in Italy, he looked set to miss out again when Oliver Solberg launched a stunning last-ditch challenge.
Solberg's fightback meant the destination of the title came down to the final stage, with his momentum seemingly carrying him to the trophy. But with just a few hundred metres to go on the final section, the Swede crashed on the penultimate corner, handing Evans and co-driver Scott Martin the crown.
Evans and Martin react
“It wouldn't be my proudest way of winning it, but it's job done,” said Evans. “It hasn't sunk in. I was sure it was over. I didn't drive the best stage but threw everything at it but it wasn't clean.”
Evans added: “I feel for Oliver. He had an incredible weekend. I'm sorry for him to lose it, but I've a lot of people to thank over the year. Scotty did an incredible job. I don't know what to say.”
Martin said: “I can't believe it. I feel for Oliver and Elliott (Edmondson, co-driver). They pushed so hard but we did everything we could. It's hard to sum up. I've a lot of people to thank. The journey I've been on, there's a lot of people with us and a lot of people looking down on us.”
Solberg's near miss
Solberg, who was also chasing his maiden title, told Rally TV: “First congratulations to Elfyn. He has been very consistent all season. That I even had a shot after my rollercoaster of a season is incredible.”
“I tried everything. I knew I was pushing but didn't know if it was enough. I pushed even more and I couldn't save the car. I tried my very best. When you are so close, I maybe didn't believe it at the beginning of the weekend but you believe more and more. I tried. Hopefully I have a few more years to try again.”
