Dubai, UAE: Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) World Rally Team (WRT) emerged victorious at the 2024 FIA World Rally Championship’s (WRC) Rally de Portugal after an exhilarating battle on fast, technical gravel stages. Sébastien Ogier and co-driver Vincent Landais, piloting the No. 17 Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 Hybrid Electric Vehicle, secured a historic sixth victory at the Rally de Portugal. Ogier’s triumph establishes him as the driver with the most WRC victories in Rally de Portugal, matching Finnish legend Markku Alén’s tally of five wins back in 2017. TGR-WRT has now clinched victory in the last five editions of the event with four different drivers.

Akio Toyoda, TGR-WRT Chairman, lauded Ogier and Landais for their outstanding performance, highlighting Ogier’s calm demeanor and professionalism throughout the competition. Toyoda expressed gratitude for having such a “true professional” driver in the team, emphasizing Ogier’s ability to handle challenges and effectively communicate with the team.

Toyoda also commended the team’s improved composure during the Rally de Portugal weekend, noting their ability to remain calm and find solutions amidst various challenges. He expressed satisfaction with the team’s growth, highlighting the collective effort to strengthen each member, ultimately enhancing the performance of the Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 Hybrid Electric Vehicle.

Ogier’s strategic prowess was evident as he seized the lead on Day Two and maintained it through the longest day of the competition, ultimately securing victory with a lead of 7.9 seconds. TGR-WRT celebrated a double victory in Portugal, with the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 Hybrid Electric Vehicle securing its first WRC2 win on its gravel debut at this level.

Toyota’s participation in various forms of motorsports, including Formula One, the World Endurance Championship (WEC), and the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race, underscores its commitment to making ‘ever-better’ cars. Through TGR, Toyota aims to develop new technologies and solutions that enhance the joy of driving for everyone.

The sixth round of the 2024 FIA WRC, Rally Italia Sardegna (May 31 – June 2), poses significant challenges with its fast yet narrow gravel stages and high temperatures, placing considerable stress on vehicles and tires.

Race Notes:

• No. 17 Toyota GR YARIS Rally1 Hybrid Electric Vehicle (Sébastien Ogier and Vincent Landais)
• Position: 1st
• Time: 3h41m32.3s