Sebastien Ogier believes that it was a matter of time for Kalle Rovanpera to become a WRC Champion and mentions that he could not do anything to catch KR for the win of Rally New Zealand.
The Finn driver became the youngest ever WRC driver who wins the drivers' championship, as Colin McRae held this record since 1995, and it was a matter of time for KR to clinch his maiden WRC title after his strong performance in 2022.
Sebastien Ogier returned to Rally New Zealand and had the ambition to win this event as Jari-Matti Latvala stole the win of that rally from the Frenchman twelve years ago. However, he finished second overall again in New Zealand as he lost time in Stage 7 due to the lack of rear spoiler after hitting a tree brunch in Stage 6. In addition to that, he might have faced a problem with his Yaris as he checked one minute late in SS12 meaning that he received a 10-second time penalty.
"Today we have witnessed history", Ogier said.
"It’s fantastic for Kalle, Jonne and for the whole team.
"It’s been an amazing season from him and it was only a matter of time.
"He did it in style this weekend and I think that’s the mark of a great champion.
"I can take a lot of satisfaction from this weekend.
"It was a nice comeback after three months away, on a challenging rally with faster roads than those I’ve driven this season and with really tricky conditions.
"Kalle was untouchable in those difficult conditions like he has been many times this season.
"I realised it was not the moment to take crazy risks as I’m here to help the team, and we are also getting very close to the manufacturers’ championship".
Photo Credits: Toyota
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