Rain‑streaked celebration in Dolgellau
Elfyn Evans drove the Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 through Dolgellau’s closed streets as thousands of fans braved Wellington rain to honour Britain’s first world rally champion in a quarter‑century.
The rally legend paused at his old school, Ysgol Bro Idris, to greet pupils and staff before the main ceremony.
Arriving at the town centre, Evans lifted the car onto a stage where a local choir performed the Welsh national anthem and he addressed the crowd.
He thanked volunteers, the Gwynedd Council and special guest Glenn Patterson, before signing names and handing out race‑worthy memorabilia.
Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth praised the driver’s perseverance and highlighted the impact of the win on the nation, describing Evans and co‑driver Scott Martin as “a true champion, a true hero here too.”
WRC title and future goals
The championship was secured when rival Oliver Solberg crashed on the final Sardinia stage, an event that has since gone viral, gathering millions of views on social media.
Evans reflected on the “dramatic” finish, noting that the spectacle is beneficial for a sport seeking new audiences.
He described the fight for the title as “something that would have been difficult to write for a movie,” adding that the sport gained an extra layer of excitement.
After the victory, Evans stood on the sidelines to test Toyota’s 2027 WRC car, emphasizing that his heavy schedule keeps him moving forward.
“Life is busy, but I’m looking to the next thing,” he said, acknowledging that his present focus lies ahead of future rallies.
With this triumph, Evans joins Colin McRae and Richard Burns as Britain’s third world rally champion, a milestone that signals a new chapter for Welsh motorsport.
"