Latvala Predicts Strong Ogier Attack in Paraguay

Pulse Sports Team 11:11 - 28 August 2026

Toyota WRC team principal Jari-Matti Latvala will not be attending Rally Paraguay, the 11th round of the World Rally Championship season, but offered an intriguing prediction for the event.

“Last year, Paraguay was a new rally and everyone enjoyed it; the stages were very interesting,” Latvala explained to Finnish media. “I hope that Sami Pajari and Elfyn Evans will once again perform at a high level.”

“Elfyn will be starting first on the stages on Friday, and I think that’s a disadvantage for him, which Sami could capitalize on. However, Sébastien Ogier will also be there, and he’ll definitely be looking to make up for his mistake in Finland. I’m sure he’ll be in excellent form and will be aiming for the win.”

Evans holds a 30-point lead over Pajari in the battle for the world rally title, with Takamoto Katsuta in third, followed by Oliver Solberg and Ogier. All five Toyota drivers still have a mathematical chance at the world title, but Evans remains the clear favorite.

“Elfyn and Sami will most likely be thinking more about the championship,” Latvala added. “That’s why I believe Ogier will attack with a nothing-to-lose mentality. Seb will certainly be taking big risks and pushing hard.”