In a season finale brimming with drama, the Toyota GAZOO Racing World Rally Team (TGR-WRT) secured its fourth consecutive FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) manufacturers’ title, marking their eighth overall. Rally Japan provided the perfect stage for Toyota’s triumph as they dominated their home rally with a stunning one-two finish, underlining their tenacity and world-class expertise.
A triumph born of resilience
Team Principal Jari-Matti Latvala reflected on the season’s challenges and the relentless determination that defined their campaign. “We have had such a rollercoaster season and we knew coming here to Rally Japan that we still had a chance to take the title, but the odds were not in our favour,” he said. “We kept that fight on to the end and that’s how we managed to win the title. This is a momentous Sunday for us. It shows you should keep fighting until the end and never lose faith.”
Toyota’s fightback came after a series of heartbreaks during the second half of the season, including three crucial Sundays where they lost valuable points. Rally Japan, however, turned the tide in their favour with remarkable performances from their drivers.
Elfyn Evans delivers on Toyota’s home soil
Elfyn Evans, piloting car 33, played a pivotal role in Toyota’s triumph, clinching victory in Rally Japan. “It’s been a very exciting last day of Rally Japan, and we’re delighted with the final result,” Evans shared. “It’s a very special event as a home rally for the team, and I’m naturally very happy to win it again. With it, I’m also really happy to contribute towards the manufacturers’ title: it means a lot for every member of the team, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
Evans’ win was not without its challenges, as he faced intense competition throughout the rally. His perseverance and ability to capitalize on the opportunities presented by rival drivers’ misfortunes proved decisive.
The power of persistence
Sébastien Ogier, one of the most decorated drivers in WRC history, also delivered a stellar performance in car 17, underscoring the team’s never-give-up ethos. “I think you could not have written a better finish to the season for us, with everything to play for on the final stage here in Japan,” Ogier said. “There was a lot of pressure, it was all or nothing in the Power Stage. Seeing the happy faces of everyone in the team, and of our chairman Morizo-san, is the best feeling and also good reward for all the effort that every team member has made during the season.”
Ogier’s contributions throughout the season were instrumental, showcasing his legendary ability to rise to the occasion in critical moments.
Home hero Takamoto Katsuta’s gratitude
Takamoto Katsuta, a local favourite driving car 18, emphasized the team’s collective effort and the passionate support from fans. “It’s been a very tough season, but at the end, we were able to take back the manufacturers’ championship, and it’s such a great feeling,” Katsuta said. “The whole team did a fantastic job, and without their support, I would not have been able to do it.”
While Katsuta narrowly missed a podium finish in Japan, his contributions throughout the season added depth to Toyota’s campaign.
A message from TGR-WRT’s Chairman
TGR-WRT Chairman Akio Toyoda expressed heartfelt gratitude and pride in the team’s accomplishment. “’We hate to lose’. With this slogan, we kept fighting until the very end without giving up,” Toyoda said. “I would like to celebrate sincerely with all the TGR-WRT members today. Seeing the rally cars on the roads of East Asia is significant for us as Asian car manufacturers. Let’s continue to boost motorsports in Asia together, and let’s have a good fight again next year!”
Toyoda also extended congratulations to Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville and Martijn Wydaeghe for clinching the drivers’ and co-drivers’ championship titles, highlighting the camaraderie and fierce competition that makes WRC special.
Looking ahead to 2025
With the dust settled on an electrifying 2024 season, anticipation for the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship is already building. The expanded calendar promises fresh challenges, with new events in Saudi Arabia, Paraguay, and Spain, alongside the iconic Rallye Monte-Carlo, which kicks off the season from 23–26 January.
Toyota’s eighth manufacturers’ title is a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and sheer passion for rallying. As they look to defend their crown in 2025, the WRC promises to deliver even more heart-stopping action, ensuring fans around the globe remain on the edge of their seats.