In a dramatic finale of Rally Sardinia, Elfyn Evans secured the World Championship title after Nikolay Solberg’s brief lead unraveled moments before the end.
Rally Sardinia: A Decisive Stage
Solberg, backed by Elliott Edmondson, had surged to a 1.9‑second advantage over Evans early in the last stage. Yet with two corners left, a sudden blip sent Solberg off the gravel and into the bushes.
Recovering and rejoining the road, Solberg finished the stage, claiming the rally victory. However, the championship slipped through his fingers as Evans retained the overall lead.
Solberg Responds
“I expected the corner to be fine and it was fine until there was a bush, like a gravel bank on the outside and I didn’t expect the car to hook me in, so it came like a surprise,” Solberg said.
He added, “I tried my very best to the very end and that is all I can say. I’m not a guy that gives up. It hurts, but I have no regrets.” He endorsed Evans and co‑driver Scott Martin’s championship performance, stating, “They clearly deserve it with the strong and consistent season they have had.”
Looking Ahead
Solberg closed by noting, “This was my whole dream. I thought I could do it, so it is a strange feeling. I’m proud, but it hurts. I am looking forward to the future, taking the positives, and hopefully having many years to try again.” The season concludes with Evans as the new world champion, while Solberg eyes redemption in the coming calendar.
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