Sébastien Ogier showed once again why he remains a legend in the sport, as he conquered the WRC Paraguay Rally with a thrilling comeback drive. This debut event in South America delivered drama, and Ogier’s performance ensured both personal glory and a historic achievement for Toyota.
Ogier’s Road to Victory in Paraguay
The Frenchman’s rally began with misfortune when a tyre deflation cost him nearly 40 seconds on Friday. Many thought his chances were gone, but Ogier is never one to back down. He clawed back the deficit stage by stage, eventually securing his 18th victory with Toyota. That win makes him the brand’s most successful driver ever, moving past Kalle Rovanperä.
Toyota Equals Citroën’s Historic Record
The triumph was also historic for Toyota as the Japanese manufacturer reached 102 WRC wins, matching Citroën’s long-standing record. The team has dominated 2025 with nine wins from ten rallies, proving its relentless pace and consistency across every surface.
Power and Performance on Display
Ogier’s Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 showed its pace across Paraguay’s demanding gravel roads. The car’s hybrid system provided an explosive mix of power and precision, while Ogier’s ability to push to the limit turned setbacks into opportunities. Even when heavy rain spoiled his Wolf Power Stage run, his earlier speed had already sealed the deal.
Emotions and Atmosphere
For Ogier, the victory meant more than just points. He admitted South American rallies had rarely been kind to him in the past. Winning here, in front of passionate fans and an electric atmosphere, marked a personal milestone as well as a career highlight.
Heartbreak and Highlights for Rivals
Not everyone left Paraguay with smiles. Adrien Fourmaux, driving for Hyundai, had been set for his first career podium. But on the final stage, a drop in pace cost him dearly, pushing him to fourth place. Thierry Neuville seized the moment, setting the fastest Power Stage time and jumping onto the podium just ahead of his teammate.
Championship Title Battle Intensifies
Elfyn Evans kept his championship lead intact, finishing second ahead of Neuville. His margin remains slim, though, with both Ogier and Rovanperä breathing down his neck. The title fight now looks set to go all the way, with only four rounds remaining.
Rally Paraguay Results
- S Ogier / V Landais FRA Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 3h 00m 06.6s
- E Evans / S Martin GBR Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 +26.2s
- T Neuville / M Wydaeghe BEL Hyundai i20 N Rally1 +27.2s
- A Fourmaux / A Coria FRA Hyundai i20 N Rally1 +28.5s
- O Tänak / M Järveoja EST Hyundai i20 N Rally1 +30.6s
- K Rovanperä / J Halttunen FIN Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 +2m 05.2s
Drivers’ Championship Standings (After Round 10 of 14)
- E Evans 198 pts
- S Ogier 189 pts
- K Rovanperä 189 pts
Looking Ahead to Rally Chile
The championship continues in less than two weeks with Rally Chile Bio Bío. The gravel stages there promise another intense fight as Toyota, Hyundai, and M-Sport Ford prepare for battle. With the standings so close, every point will matter in deciding this year’s champion.
Summary
The first WRC Paraguay Rally delivered unforgettable drama. Ogier turned early trouble into triumph, Toyota equalled Citroën’s record, and the title fight is tighter than ever. Fans can expect more fireworks as the season heads to Chile.
Disclaimer: Motorsport events are subject to unpredictable conditions, and outcomes can change due to weather, technical, or safety factors.
Source: WRC
