Sébastien Ogier has completed the deal that will keep him in Toyota’s World Rally Championship line-up for next season.
The Frenchman had originally planned to retire from the WRC at the end of this year, but the shortened calendar of events in 2020 led to him reconsidering.
By summer it became clear there was serious talks between Ogier and Toyota, which he joined at the start of this year and with which currently has one win with on Rally México, to continue their partnership.
“This 2020 year was not as long as expected I would say, we have had a short season with only a few rallies, but enough for me to see that I really enjoy working with the team, I enjoy driving this car, and I’m very happy to finally announce and confirm that I will drive one more year in the WRC with Toyota Gazoo Racing,” Ogier announced on Friday.
“It was not my initial plan but I think this year has been very particular for everybody on this planet, and the fact that I had to spend like most people a lot of time at home this year, I didn’t do the last season that I had expected to do and to end my career with such a strange season was not great.
“So, for sure, that was one of the reasons to change my mind about my retirement. The plan is to keep pushing in 2021 and hopefully have a better, normal season and try to push for a last title.
“Definitely the potential for winning rallies and winning championships is there, so that’s everything a rally driver is looking for.
“I think all the ingredients are here so now just let’s do it, and I’m looking forward already for the next season.”
Ogier is currently second in the 2020 WRC championship standings, 14 points behind team-mate Elfyn Evans, and is firmly in contention to become a seven-time WRC champion at next month’s Monza title decider.
