Ogier to fight for ninth WRC title

The Frenchman, who drives a GR Yaris Rally1 for Toyota GAZOO Racing, was only scheduled to compete in selected rounds in 2024 but, despite missing three rallies earlier in the season, sits just 27 points adrift of series leader Thierry Neuville with four rounds remaining.

Ogier’s participation at EKO Acropolis Rally Greece (5 – 8 September) was confirmed by the publication of the event’s entry list, but it now looks clear that the 40-year-old will also be in action in Chile, Central Europe and Japan.

Speaking to German publication Motorsport Aktuell, Ogier said: “Originally, Chile and Central Europe weren’t on my list. Given the current situation in the manufacturers’ and drivers’ championships, however, it’s clear that I will now compete in the four remaining WRC rounds and fight for the title once again.”

If Ogier were to succeed in claiming a ninth crown, he would equal the record set by his compatriot Sébastien Loeb. But statistics, he insists, do not motivate him – and a further title attempt in 2025 looks to be off the cards as he prioritises spending time with his family.

“I don’t care much about numbers, statistics, or records. I have other priorities,” Ogier continued. “I’ll drive as long as it brings me joy and I can still compete.

“And I want to make one thing clear: I will never compete in a full WRC season again. After this rather intense season, I might even do less next year,” he added.