Elfyn Evans keeps a narrow one‑point lead in the 2026 World Rally Championship title after a puncture forced a wheel change on the penultimate stage of Rally Italy Sardinia.
Evans stopped on stage 16 to replace a front‑right tyre at a fast, stony corner, claiming the loss had been predictable yet costly.
Oliver Solberg, the rally champion, had opened Sunday ahead by six points, but the puncture pushed Evans back, leaving Solberg only three points ahead before the final Power Stage.
Both competitors now face a decisive 7.1‑km Sassari‑Argentiera Power Stage; Solberg’s 8.7‑second Super Sunday lead would earn the title on countback if he matched Evans.
Power Stage Determines the Champion
The Power Stage offers five bonus points, making Solberg’s win on countback likely if he matches Evans’ time; Evans must beat Solberg to claim the championship outright.
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