Volkswagen Motorsport boss Jost Capito has paid tribute to Sebastien Ogier for winning Rally Finland, and has apologized to second driver Jari-Matti Latvala for his retirement on the opening day.
A sixth win for the Polo R WRC on its eighth rally enabled Ogier and co-driver Julien Ingrassia, recovering from surgery to repair a broken collarbone, to extend their lead in both the driver and co-driver standings to 90 points. It also moved Volkswagen further ahead in the Manufacturers’ Championship.
“Seb and Julien have been out this world,” said Capito. “They were outstanding, especially with Julien coming back and doing all the preparation needed. I am not sure I have ever seen such a performance anywhere.
“The Rally Finland is a true legend, and winning it is very special. We have a great team which made all this possible. From the engine and transmission departments to team management, mechanics and designers – I am proud of everyone. This time, however, you have to highlight the driving performance of Sebastien Ogier.”
As well as praising his rally winner, Capito said sorry to Latvala who retired from day one with suspension damage after his Polo R struck a rock at the side of the road on the second stage. The Finn retired from opening day of Rally Mexico in similar circumstances.
“We are very sorry for Jari-Matti,” said Capito. “It was not at all his fault – it was his experience in the first season and the car should have been able to cope with hitting this rock and it did not. This is the second time he has had this and we are really sorry that we messed up his rally.”
“We must learn as a team from his retirement. Our engineers will analyse the incident in detail and further improve the Polo R WRC.”