Toyota to exclude Elfyn Evans from manufacturer points at WRC finale

Toyota Gazoo Racing has announced that championship leader Elfyn Evans will not score manufacturer points during the season-ending WRC Rally Sardinia. While Evans will still compete in his Toyota GR Yaris Rally1, the decision is intended to equalize the field among title contenders.

Because Evans has not retired from a leg since the Croatia Rally, his engine has accumulated significantly more mileage than those of his rivals, Sami Pajari and Oliver Solberg. Under current regulations, engine changes are primarily permitted following accident-related damage. By removing Evans from the manufacturer points tally, Toyota can perform extensive mechanical work, including an engine change, to mitigate potential reliability issues caused by high mileage.

In contrast, Solberg and Sébastien Ogier are entering the final round with fresher engines following recent replacements. Although Toyota has already secured the manufacturers' championship in Chile, the move ensures that the driver's championship battle remains competitive.