Toyota’s Elfyn Evans, Sami Pajari and Oliver Solberg will battle on Sardinia to decide the 2026 World Rally Championship, with Evans required to score 19 points to guarantee the title.
Title Race Overview
Evans holds a 17‑point advantage over Pajari, who trails him by four more points than Solberg’s 35‑point deficit. A win will give Evans a safety net, but his opponents will still be within striking distance.
Three teams behind the trio have already taken the field, each size‑up on the daunting 17‑stage rally to be run behind rough‑gravel courts.
Evans’ Road‑Cleaning Challenge
As the leader who starts first, Evans explains that the loose surface gives early lead holders a hard time when the road cleaning effect deteriorates track conditions rapidly.
He monitored highly recent repairs that left a soft, dust‑laden layer with no rainfall to firm up the tarmac, which will evolve as the stages progress.
“Keeping the line tight and avoiding damage to the rivals’ cars is crucial,” Evans said. “We’re hoping the condition does not worsen, but it will be a tough job.”
Pajari’s Prime Opportunity
Pajari, who has registered the most wins of any rival – Estonia, Finland and Paraguay – ranks second in the standings and credits the team’s long‑term preparation for this window.
He admitted the pressure now falls on him after his teammate’s lead increased, but stresses that “a great rally again and collecting points is what it boils down to.”
“It is the best chance I will get, probably, for a title,” he added, noting his two‑year quest in the WRC’s sole top tier.
Solberg’s All‑or‑Nothing Plan
Solberg sits 21 points behind Evans and plans to win the event, giving himself 35 points and the only realistic chance of overhauling the standings.
He described the weekend as “tricky” and highlighted the need to stay out of trouble, while referencing the disappointment of the season cutting a round short due to the canceled Rally Saudi Arabia.
“We signed up for 14 rallies, I accepted the decision; we now have to concentrate”, Solberg said.
Dust‑Related Concerns
Drivers request that organisers allow longer gaps between cars to reduce the harmful dusty conditions that can arise from dry, sandy gravel with minimal wind.
Thierry Neuville highlighted the invisible dust that settles on vehicles early, whereas Sebastien Ogier suggested a four‑minute gap after a quick regroup would help keep the rally fair.
Both echoed common sense as key to protecting visibility on the longest, tree‑lined stages.
First‑Time Helmet‑Cam Footage
WRC fans will experience a driver’s‑eye view for the first time thanks to an electronic helmet camera by Bell Racing Helmets approved by the FIA, using technology similar to Formula 1.
M‑Sport‑Ford’s Jon Armstrong will trial the camera through the weekend, providing a new layer of immersion for spectators and analysts alike.
The final stewards’ check will confirm if a 19‑point cushion holds Evans’ title on a day where the road, dust and driver performance can all swing the outcome.
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