Thierry Neuville Claims First World Rally Championship Title After Dramatic Rally Japan

Belgian driver secures long-awaited victory as rival Ott Tanak crashes, while Toyota edges Hyundai for manufacturers' title.

Thierry Neuville, 36, won his first FIA World Rally Championship title after finishing sixth at the season-ending Rally Japan.
Neuville's Hyundai teammate and closest rival, Ott Tanak, crashed out early on the final day, ending his title hopes despite leading the rally at the time.
Neuville entered the rally with a 25-point lead and overcame early mechanical setbacks to secure the championship, having been runner-up five times in his career.
Elfyn Evans of Toyota claimed the Rally Japan victory, his first win of the season, helping Toyota narrowly defeat Hyundai for the manufacturers' championship by just three points.
The rally faced additional challenges, including a canceled stage due to a security breach when an unauthorized vehicle entered the course.