Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja claimed the sixth position at the end of Wales Rally GB but had just as much reason to celebrate. Despite falling behind Thierry Neuville in the championship standings, the pairing has played an important role in the team’s championship success and was seen celebrating alongside their team in the podium celebrations.
The M-Sport team took all titles in this year’s World Rally Championship. Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia triumphed among the drivers and co-drivers, while the team secured the Constructors’ crown. Besides that, Elfyn Evans took the victory so it was really an unparalleled celebration for the Cumbrian squad.
“Our weekend might not have played out as we had been hoping, but crossing the line and securing the manufacturers’ championship for the team was something very special”, Tänak said.
“Malcolm and everyone in the team have done such an incredible job this year and we’ve achieved huge success together. They really do deserve everything.”
Congratulations Teammate @SebOgier You are a True Champ ?????
And very well deserved title for @MSportLtd family! ? pic.twitter.com/HGILX89a0c— Ott Tänak (@OttTanak) October 29, 2017
Tänak: “Crossing the line and securing the manufacturers’ championship for the team was something very special”
Team principal Malcolm Wilson was understandably the happiest man in the service park and during the days after the rally. He believed that after years of struggle M-Sport was once again a championship contender. And was proved right. Ogier had two victories during the season (and prior to the last round in Australia) – in Monte Carlo and Portugal. Tänak himself took two more – in Sardegna (Italy) and Germany. Elfyn Evan’s success on home soil was the cherry on the top, especially after he lost the fight in Argentina at the very end of the race.
In the championship standings, Tänak is third with 169 points – 14 points behind Neuville. His and the team’s aim in Australia will be the Estonian to return to second place.
These are my closest people on rally. We have 1 more push to do, but this will be a BIG one ??? @RallyAustralia #2 pic.twitter.com/wMtMQbku3B
— Ott Tänak (@OttTanak) November 2, 2017
