The road to victory was anything but a stroll in the park for Sébastien Ogier. He may have made it look like a piece of cake, but winner Sébastien Ogier described the 2014 Rally Great Britain as one of the toughest he has ever experienced.
“That was once again a really difficult rally. Only my first outing here in 2008 was worse. Back then it actually snowed,” said the world champion after the rally.
And despite holding a commanding lead over the chasing pack – at least from the ninth special stage on – the route to win number eight of the season was anything but a stroll in the park.
“The conditions were extremely difficult. Our job was to cut down on the risks without being too slow or losing concentration. That was a challenge in itself.”
Co-driver Julien Ingrassia joked: “On this rally we drive through a great region, which we actually only know in poor weather. I would love to come to Wales in the heat of summer.”
Ingrassia and Ogier could not deny a certain relief that the season, which began in Monte Carlo back in January, has now drawn to a close.
“I am now really rather tired,” admitted Ogier, who must still wait a few weeks before he can enjoy his hard-earned holiday. “First up are a few world champion parties, which I will enjoy – and the tests for the Rally Monte Carlo, of course.
Volkswagen Motorsport Director Jost Capito was also looking ahead already. “The 2015 season is only 65 days away. Preparations are already in full swing. “
Capito also took the opportunity to bid farewell to Mikko Hirvonen and his co-driver Jarmo Lehtinen, who have called time on their 13-year WRC career. “I had a fantastic time with Mikko and Jarmo at Ford, during which we won two World Championships. I will miss them both.”
Results, Wales Rally GB
1. S. Ogier / J. Ingrassia 3:03:08.2 0.0
2. M. Hirvonen / J. Lehtinen 3:03:45.8 +37.6
3. M. Østberg / J. Andersson 3:04:11.8 +1:03.6
4. T. Neuville / N. Gilsoul 3:04:23.1 +1:14.9
5. E. Evans / D. Barritt 3:04:32.5 +1:24.3
6. K. Meeke / P. Nagle 3:05:11.2 +2:03.0
7. O. Tänak / R. Mõlder 3:05:37.9 +2:29.7
8. J. Latvala / M. Anttila 3:05:55.7 +2:47.5
9. M. Prokop / J. Tománek 3:06:51.5 +3:43.3
10. H. Paddon / J. Kennard 3:06:56.7 +3:48.5
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