WRC Japan Rally Results 2024: Evans Wins, Neuville Takes Title

Evans Clinches Victory in Rally Japan

Elfyn Evans secured a dramatic win at the season-ending Rally Japan, marking a triumphant close to the 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC). The Welsh driver, representing Toyota Gazoo Racing, moved into the lead after Hyundai’s Ott Tanak crashed out during the final stages. The win also helped Toyota secure the manufacturers’ title, a consolation for missing out on the drivers’ championship for the first time in six years.

Evans, 35, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome: “It wasn’t looking so good at one point, but I’m very happy with the result and for the team. We’ll try again next year to win it all.”

Neuville’s Long-Awaited WRC Title

Thierry Neuville, after 15 years of competing, finally claimed his first WRC drivers’ title. The Belgian driver entered the final rally with a 25-point lead over his Hyundai teammate Ott Tanak and needed just six points to secure the championship.

Despite facing a turbo issue on Friday that dropped him to 15th, Neuville and his co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe fought back, benefiting from Tanak’s crash to take the title. Neuville’s wait for the championship is the longest in WRC history, spanning 5,533 days.

“I’m feeling great,” Neuville said after the race. “We worked so hard for this and finally got rewarded. I just want to thank everyone who supported us along the way.”

Hyundai’s Ups and Downs in Japan

Hyundai had a bittersweet conclusion to the season. While Neuville clinched the drivers’ title, Tanak’s crash cost the team a possible Rally Japan victory. However, the manufacturer finished just three points behind Toyota in the final standings, showcasing a highly competitive season.

Final WRC Standings for 2024

Drivers’ Standings:

Thierry Neuville (Belgium), Hyundai, 242 points
Elfyn Evans (Great Britain), Toyota, 210 points
Ott Tanak (Estonia), Hyundai, 200 points

Manufacturers’ Standings:

Toyota Gazoo Racing, 561 points
Hyundai Shell Mobis, 558 points

Toyota’s consistent performance throughout the season ensured their place at the top, but Hyundai’s strong campaign showed they remain a fierce competitor.

Looking Ahead

As the 2024 season concludes, teams are already preparing for 2025. Neuville’s victory marks a turning point, while Evans and Toyota aim to reclaim the drivers’ title. Fans can look forward to another thrilling WRC season ahead.