Ott Tänak Wins Central European Rally 2024

Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja triumphed in the Central European Rally, solidifying their position in the World Rally Championship title race. Tänak's victory came after rival Sébastien Ogier crashed out during the penultimate stage, allowing Tänak to finish seven seconds ahead of Elfyn Evans, while current leader Thierry Neuville secured third place. Despite the win, Neuville maintains a 25-point lead in the overall standings, needing to outscore Tänak by two points to clinch the championship in Japan next month. The rally, which spanned the Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria, featured challenging conditions that caused several competitors to falter. Tänak's win marks his second of the season, bringing his points total to 200 as the competition intensifies ahead of the final event. Neuville expressed disappointment over missed opportunities but remains optimistic about his title chances in Japan.