Central European Rally Day 1 Starts Germany Ogier Leads Early

The Central European Rally in Germany marked the first asphalt round of the FIA World Rally Championship in six months, with Toyota's Sébastien Ogier taking an early lead over teammate Kalle Rovanperä. Ogier performed strongly in the shakedown and competitive stages, leading Rovanperä by 1.6 seconds overnight, with Elfyn Evans close behind in sixth place. Toyota's deputy team principal Juha Kankkunen highlighted the competitive fight expected among their three title contenders while expressing confidence in other drivers like Sami Pajari and Takamoto Katsuta. Ogier, who recently won the Rally from Chile and regained the world championship lead, benefits from opening the road on asphalt, which is advantageous compared to gravel stages. Meanwhile, the 2026 European Rally Championship announced a refreshed calendar featuring eight events, including new and returning rallies with a mix of asphalt and gravel stages, demonstrating the sport's evolving challenge and spectacle. The Central European Rally serves as a key event for drivers to consolidate championship standings ahead of future rounds.