by M.C. – photo: @TGR_WRC | Rally Argentina was seen as a challenge for some and as an opportunity (bordering necessity) for others. Amongst the first ones was Sebastien Ogier as Argentina remains the only Rally he has never been able to win. Amongst the second group was the Estonian Ott Tänak. The brave Toyota pilot is considered as one of the few capable of toppling Sebastien Ogier off his throne, but he has had an erratic performance over the last four races. In his first season with the Japanese firm, he has been falling considerably short of what was expected of him, but now he is back with a masterful win. He showed an undisputed superiority as he dominated the Rally virtually from start to finish winning ten out of the eighteen stages of the Argentinian Rally.

This triumph places the Estonian in third position in the standings, shortening his distance with Ogier. Thierry Neuville (Hyundai), last year’s winner in Argentina, took second overall, winning four stages of the Rally. This result consolidates his second position in the WRC and also brings him closer to leader Ogier.

Another pleasant surprise was that of Spanish driver Dani Sordo (Hyundai), who finished the rally in an excellent third position, boosting his confidence for the forthcoming Rally Portugal, one of his favourite races.

Unwavering Sebastien Ogier (M-Sport) was unable to keep the pace this time and didn’t make it to the podium, managing only a very disputed fourth position and always under the pressure of another Hyundai (Andreas Mikkelsen) who finished fifth at just four seconds behind. Rally Argentina will therefore remain out of the Frenchman’s grip for now. We will have to wait until next year to see if he finally takes the coveted victory.