Victory in Portugal for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team
A strong start
The first day of the event was focused mainly on the area around Arganil, part of the rally for the first time since 2001. In challenging dry gravel conditions, with temperatures well above 30 degrees, the team made a strong start, all setting competitive times and avoiding major issues.
Challenges on day two
The second day featured 160.7 competitive kilometres, split across two loops of three stages. The team had to grapple with braking and suspension issues but were able to maintain their lead, with Tänak finishing the day in first place, followed by team-mate Meeke in second.
A well-earned win
Tänak started the final day with a lead of 4.3 seconds over Meeke, who himself was 4.9 seconds ahead of third place. A spin in the penultimate stage unfortunately caused Meeke to drop to third, before a clip with a tree stump at the start of the final stage forced him to retire. Tänak was able to increase his advantage to 15.9 seconds, maintaining his first place position.
Tänak’s victory and the contribution of the whole team has helped to score valuable points towards the manufacturers’ championship, where Toyota continues to close the gap to first position.