Toyota dominates opening day of Rally Japan

Toyota Gazoo Racing asserted early dominance at Rally Japan, with Elfyn Evans leading a manufacturer sweep of the top four positions after Friday’s opening stages. Evans capitalized on a favorable road position and a strong performance on the Isegami Tunnel stage, where he built a decisive lead that he maintained throughout the changing conditions of the day.

Oliver Solberg holds second place, despite losing time due to an unexpected encounter with wildlife on the road and a series of minor errors. Sébastien Ogier, the defending rally winner, sits third after a day spent adjusting his GR Yaris Rally1 to the tricky asphalt, while Sami Pajari rounds out the top four following a late-day surge that saw him top the timesheets on the final test.

Championship contender Thierry Neuville leads the charge for Hyundai in fifth place, though he noted significant struggles with car balance once the stages dried out. Home favorite Takamoto Katsuta endured a difficult start after picking up a puncture early in the day, leaving him in sixth place as the field prepares for Saturday’s marathon of over 120 competitive kilometres.