M-Sport Ford Rally Team Principal Malcolm Wilson has praised the departing Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia after the pair clinched their sixth World Rally Championship title.
Speaking after last weekends Kennards Hire Rally Australia where Ogier defeated title rivals Ott Tänak and Thierry Neuville to clinch his second successive title for M-Sport, Wilson said: “It’s been an emotional day and I can tell you that this championship really does mean a lot. Two months ago it wasn’t looking good, but when you have Sébastien and Julien in your team you know that anything is possible.”
“The way they fought back over the last three events was incredible and I am so proud of all we have achieved together. We will certainly miss them next year, but this was a proper team effort and I have to say that every single member of the team played their part in the result.”
Ogier and Ingrassia celebrate after winning last weekend. Photo Credit: M-Sport
Wilson also credited both of his Ogier’s rivals in the Drivers Championship and added: “I would also like to congratulate Ott and Thierry on such a fantastic championship battle over the course of the season. We know first-hand how competitive they are and it really was a pleasure to watch the world’s three best drivers do battle right down to the wire. The sport is in fantastic shape at the moment, and I think everyone involved should be proud.”
After finishing fifth in Australia and taking maximum points on the final Power Stage of the season, Ogier’s sixth title was confirmed with the Frenchman ending up with an 18 point margin at the top of the standings over Neuville with Tänak 20 points further adrift after both him and Neuville retired from the Australian event.
