BY FRANK KAHEESI & HENRY MBAZIIRA
DRIVERS expressed a range of emotions after the WRC Rally of Saudi Arabia, with feelings of accomplishment, disappointment, and excitement for the future.
Some drivers celebrated their performance with pride, while others were disappointed by mechanical issues or crashes, but many looked forward to future events with determination.
The event was emotional for some, like the co-driver who was seen in tears after an emotional farewell.
Emotions from different drivers and teams:
Mārtiņš Sesks: Expressed a mix of emotions, with relief and gratitude for the experience, while also feeling disappointed by the punctures and mechanical issues that plagued his drive.
Nasser Al-Attiyah: Despite winning, he was still emotional as he said goodbye to the rally and expressed his desire to return.
Kalle Rovanperä :
The co-driver, Jonne Halttunen reportedly broke down in tears as the rally ended, a sign of the emotional and intense nature of the competition.
Kalle and Jonne have been partners since 2017, and won two World Rally Championship titles together in 2022 and 2023 with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing team.
Kalle will be starting his single seater journey in January, with Hitech in the New Zealand’s Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy.
The 2026 championship, will race over four consecutive weekends, with two rounds in New Zealand’s North Island and two in the South Island.
Other drivers and teams: Many drivers expressed mixed emotions, celebrating their achievements while also feeling disappointed about their performance.
Had the following intercepts;
Sebastien Ogier;
Now equaled with fellow countryman Sebastien Loeb at nine WRC titles, it was all smiles for Ogier at end wolf power stage
“I never thought this moment would happen in my life, after I decided to change the path of my career and enjoy more time with my family,” Ogier intimated.
He further added that;
“I have had a chance to work with a fantastic team around me, and the chance to have found a new co-driver, Vincent Landais, who is doing an amazing job by my side, who somehow has motivated me and made me feel younger again. I’m so happy for you Landais.”
Elfyn Evans and Scott Martinat have been great opponents this year.
They’ve been super strong, pushing us to the limit, up to the very last stage. Well done to you guys, and to the whole TGR_WRC team. I’m proud and very happy to be part of this family,out poured Ogier on his Twitter account after the event.
Congratulatory messages;
Big congratulations for your 9th World title Seb and first World title Vincent!!
It was amazing to see such a great battle between 3 team mates,Ogier, Evans and Kalle from inside of the team!!
I’m learned from you a lot and thank you for giving me some tips and advices every during the rally week!
Now, I definitely time to take level up by use your tips and support!!
Vinz(Vincent), I remember have met you first time in 2017 WRC2 category, and now you become World Champion!!! I’m so happy for you also,happily said Takamoto Katsuta.
Kalle Rovanpera;
What a ride it has been. A lot of great memories, many ups and downs, but mostly I will remember all the fun times we’ve had over the years and we can be proud of what we managed to accomplish during our time in WRC.
Victory in Saudi Arabia was a masterclass from Thierry Neville and Martijn,on the final day of the season, celebrated WRC team, Hyundai who will be without Ott Tanak 2026, after deciding to take a sabbatical.
Fan reactions:
Fans were excited and supportive, praising the drivers for their hard work and dedication.
Catch up again next year.
