Oliver Solberg loses WRC title after Sardinia error

Rally driver Oliver Solberg narrowly missed the 2026 World Rally Championship title during the final event in Sardinia. Despite winning Rally Italia Sardegna by nearly a minute over Sébastien Ogier, Solberg lost the championship by five points after driving off the track during the final power stage, just two corners from the finish line.

Solberg, who competes under the Swedish flag, finished the season with 243 points, trailing Elfyn Evans, who secured 238 points. The error is estimated to have resulted in a significant financial loss for Solberg, potentially amounting to a six-figure sum in lost championship bonuses and sponsorship incentives.

Solberg, the son of rally legend Petter Solberg, drives for Toyota Gazoo Racing. His 2026 season included notable victories in Monte-Carlo and Estonia, but the championship bid ended in disappointment during the final stages of the Italian rally.