Sebastien Ogier begins World Rally Championship defence in style in Monte Carlo

22 January 2017 06:10

Sebastien Ogier began the defence of his World Rally Championship title in style with a fourth consecutive victory in Monte Carlo.

It marked a dream debut with the M-Sport team for the Frenchman, who took over the lead on Saturday when Thierry Neuville broke his suspension.

Ogier took no risks on the final leg - a speed test in snowy conditions over the Col de Turini - and won by two minutes 15 seconds in his Ford Fiesta.

M-Sport, for whom this was a first win since November 2012, were denied a one-two by engine problems for Ott Tanak.

He eventually had to settle for third place behind Jari-Matti Latvala - a fine result for Toyota on their return to the championship after 17 years.

Ogier said on wrc.com: "I was hoping to win but to take it from the first rally, after only one month together and with so little preparation, feels really amazing.

"The conditions didn't make our life easy this weekend, starting first in the snow on day one and finishing with more and more snow."

Tanak did well to hold off Dani Sordo, with Ireland's Craig Breen and Welshman Elfyn Evans fifth and sixth, respectively.

Source: PA