Evyn Evans Claims Historic WRC Title After Solberg's Final-Stage Crash
Elfyn Evans became the UK's first World Rally Champion in 25 years after a dramatic final-stage crash by teammate Oliver Solberg at Rally Italia Sardegna. Evans, who had suffered a puncture earlier, secured the title by 5 points after Solberg lost control with three corners remaining.
Key points
- Elfyn Evans and co-driver Scott Martin won the 2026 WRC title with 243 points, finishing five points ahead of Oliver Solberg.
- Evans became the first British driver to win the WRC since Richard Burns in 2001 and the first Welsh driver to claim the title.
- The title was decided on the final 7.1km Sassari-Argentiera stage after Evans suffered a puncture in the penultimate stage, eliminating his Super Sunday points.
- Solberg led the final stage by 1.9 seconds but crashed into the sand with three corners left, allowing Evans to claim the championship despite finishing fifth in the rally.
- Evans had finished as championship runner-up five times previously (2020, 2021, 2023, 2024, 2025) before finally winning in 2026.
Background
Evans had been the championship leader for much of the 2026 season but saw his advantage erode in the second half. He had previously finished as runner-up five times, making this his first title after years of near-misses. The WRC is set to return to the UK in 2027 with Rally Scotland.
How outlets are covering it
BBC Sport emphasized the historic nature of Evans' win for the UK and Wales, highlighting the emotional reactions from fans and family. WRC.com focused on the technical details of the final stage, noting Solberg's 1.9-second lead before his crash. Motorsport.com detailed the puncture that set up the title decider, while DirtFish highlighted the 'all or nothing' nature of the final day. All sources agreed on the outcome but differed in emphasis: BBC on the historic significance, WRC.com on the race dynamics, and Motorsport.com on the pre-stage drama.
Why it matters
This marks the first UK WRC title in 25 years, ending a long drought for British motorsport. It also highlights the intense rivalry within Toyota Gazoo Racing and the unpredictable nature of rally racing, where a single moment can decide a season-long battle.
What to watch
The WRC will return to the UK in 2027 with Rally Scotland based around Aberdeen. BBC Sport will cover the 2027 season, starting with Rally Monte Carlo.
- World Rally Championship: Elfyn Evans v Oliver Solberg in final stage shootout for title BBC
- Evans crowned 2026 WRC champion in Sardinia thriller WRC.com
- WRC: Elfyn Evans is world champion after late Oliver Solberg crash BBC
- Elfyn Evans suffers puncture ahead of Power Stage WRC title decider Motorsport.com
- Evans: WRC title-deciding day is ‘all or nothing’ DirtFish
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