FIA World Rally Championship

Malcolm Wilson: “It’s been a long time since we had a battle this intense”

1 Mins read
Photo Credit: M-Sport

M-Sport Ford Team Principal Malcolm Wilson says that the championship battle his driver Sébastien Ogier is in “could not be closer.”

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s RallyRACC Catalunya – Rally de España, Wilson was adamant that his team are doing all they can to help Ogier and co-driver Julien Ingrassia claim a sixth straight drivers title.

He said: “The championship fight could not be closer as we head to Spain. It’s been a long time since we had a battle this intense and I know that the whole team will be working their absolute hardest to ensure Sébastien and Julien have everything they need to push for a sixth world title.”

“With three Spanish victories to their name, they certainly know what it takes to master the mixed terrain and I’m confident that we have a strong package for both surfaces. It’s going to be such an exciting weekend, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it unfolds.”

Ogier won last time out on Dayinsure Wales Rally GB. Photo Credit: M-Sport

Ogier’s teammates Elfyn Evans and Teemu Suninen are also hoping for strong results on the mixed surface event and Wilson commented on the pair: “Elfyn and Teemu are also capable of fighting for the top results next weekend, and I’m keen to see what they can do as the season draws to a close.”

“Luck has most definitely not been on Elfyn’s side this year, but the speed is there and I know he’ll want to bring the season to a close with some strong results. Teemu too will want to showcase everything he’s learnt on what will be the last familiar event of the year for him.”

RallyRACC Catalunya – Rally de España takes place this weekend with a total of 18 stages split between gravel and tarmac; Friday sees a full day of action on dirt before Saturday and Sunday’s remaining 11 stages are ran on asphalt.

Avatar photo
656 posts

About author
I'm 23 and studying a Masters in Public Relations at the University of Sunderland after graduating with a Sports Journalism degree last year. I'm one of the co-editors here at TCF and mainly look after the off-road section of the site which covers championships such as the FIA World Rally and World Rallycross series'. Away from writing and studying I have a deep interest in of a lot of different sports as well as trying to be an amateur motorsport photographer and I'm also a big music fan too!
Articles
Related posts
British GTBTCCFeaturesFIA WECFIA World Rally ChampionshipFIA World RallycrossFormula 1Porsche Carrera Cup GBPorsche Mobil 1 Supercup

A Farewell Message from The Checkered Flag

4 Mins read
After 15 years of motorsport coverage, TheCheckeredFlag.co.uk announces its closure. What began as a passion project in 2009 grew into a respected voice in motorsport journalism. Thank you for being part of this journey.
FIA World Rally ChampionshipWRC2

Didier Auriol entering Rally Japan, first WRC start since 2005

1 Mins read
1994 World Rally Champion Didier Auriol will run the 2024 season finale in Japan in a WRC2 Toyota GR Yaris. While the car is not homologated by the FIA and he thus won’t be included in the WRC results, it will be his first WRC race since the 2005 Monte Carlo Rally.
DakarFIA World Rally Championship

Kuldar Sikk recovering from broken spine at Central European Rally

1 Mins read
Kuldar Sikk broke his spine and underwent emergency surgery after an accident while supporting Ott Tänak’s gravel crew during last Friday’s Central European Rally. It is unknown if he can heal up in time to be Benediktas Vanagas’ co-driver for the 2025 Dakar Rally.