For the second consecutive year, the island of Gran Canaria hosts the prestigious motorsport event, which is part of the world classification. The competition, which started in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, has generated great anticipation among motor enthusiasts, with routes that cross some of the island's most emblematic landscapes.
The ninth special stage, held in Maspalomas, has been crucial for the overall classification. Although Sébastien Ogier lost time to Elfyn Evans, who achieved the best time in this section, the French driver has managed to maintain his leading position in the rally's general standings.
Sébastien Ogier gives up +01.7 compared to the best time set by Elfyn Evans, who takes the scratch, his first in the race, in the first pass through Maspalomas. The Frenchman finishes third in the ninth special behind his main pursuer, Oliver Solberg, but maintains a +7.3 second lead in the overall Rally standings over the Swede.
Oliver Solberg, Ogier's main rival, was just a tenth of a second behind Evans in the Maspalomas special, demonstrating the intense battle for the top spots. Meanwhile, Elfyn Evans took advantage of his excellent performance in this section to climb positions in the provisional classification, overtaking Sami Pajari.
Other drivers such as Takamoto Katsuta, the World Championship leader, also stood out in Maspalomas, setting competitive times. The day has been marked by constant variations in records and the demanding asphalt sections, which have tested the skill of all participants.
