WRC Sardinia: Elfyn Evans claims historic title after Oliver Solberg crashes in final-stage showdown

Elfyn Evans became the 2026 WRC champion in Rally Italia Sardegna after Oliver Solberg crashed two corners from the finish in a dramatic title showdown. Entering the season finale with a 21-point advantage, Evans had to manage the disadvantage of starting first on the road, which left him dealing with traffic and a tense fight. Solberg led after a strong Saturday and, after topping the Super Sunday standings, cut the gap to three points. A puncture forced Evans to stop for a front-right tyre change in the penultimate stage, costing him two provisional Super Sunday points. Evans held fifth overall but had to beat Solberg on the last stage to secure the crown.