Evans extends WRC lead with victory in Japan - AOL

Elfyn Evans extended his World Rally Championship lead by winning Rally Japan, his third victory in four years at the event. At the midway point of the 14-round season, his advantage over Toyota teammate Takamoto Katsuta grew from 12 to 20 points. The 37-year-old Brit seized control by taking the lead on Friday’s stage-two run through Isegami’s Tunnel and then protected it over the remaining 18 stages. He finished 12.8 seconds ahead of Sebastien Ogier, with Sami Pajari 51.4 seconds back in third as Katsuta completed a Toyota 1-2-3-4 in their home race. Evans also benefited from the opening-day momentum, which helped him secure the win.