Sébastien Ogier a pris les commandes du Rallye du Japon après un début de journée marqué par les soucis de Kalle Rovanperä. Le Français devance de justesse Elfyn Evans et Takamoto Katsuta, offrant à Toyota un triplé provisoire sur ses terres.
00:00Friday morning in Japan, the penultimate round of the WRC season, with all eyes on a thrilling four-way title showdown, a trio of Toyota drivers in the mix, early drama for Calais Rodman Pera, fresh from victory last time out in Europe, the fin crawling through this morning on the second stage after the high-speed impact.
00:22Championship leader Alvin Evans, winner on the past two visits here, bringing a 13-point lead to Japan, looking to take a big step closer to a maiden world title, a solid stage-winning morning for the Walshman.
00:40Sébastien Alger chasing a record-equalling ninth world title and making a strong start. The Frenchman quickest through today's opening stage to claim the rally lead.
00:52Japan's finest, Takamoto Katsuta, looking to put local knowledge to good use, and off to a promising start at his home event. Fastest through stage three to become the third leader in as many stages.
01:11Pick of the Hyundai drivers, Adrian Formo, showing good pace while his teammates struggled on the Japanese tarmac. The Frenchman staying in touch with the leaders in fifth place after the morning loop.
01:25Lunchtime Friday, Sébastien Alger regains the lead in Japan, ahead of title rival Evans. Katsuta completes a podium lockout, the top three separated by less than two seconds.
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