Japan Rally 2026, Day 1: Evans immediately hits the accelerator

First day with more than convincing performances from Elfyn Evans, who after a first stage outside the podium zone made a great comeback, occupying the leadership of the general classification from SS2 onwards. Among the drivers who tackled the asphalt stages of the Japanese round, only Oliver Solberg and Sébastien Ogier managed to keep pace with the Welshman, who is preparing for Day 2 with a lead of just over 15 seconds over his direct pursuers

Read more Rally of Japan 2026, Day 2: Evans remains leader, Solberg bids farewell to victory hopes

SS1-SS3: Evans’ recovery

In the first stage of the Japanese rally, Oliver Solberg set the best time ahead of three other Toyota drivers: Pajari, Ogier, and Evans. The Welshman himself, in the two subsequent stages, achieved the best absolute performances, crucial not only for taking the lead in the general classification but also for creating a gap of almost 18 seconds over Solberg (who was also slowed down by a deer), with only Ogier not far from the Swede. Thierry Neuville was in more difficulty, 4th but leader of the Hyundai drivers and ahead of Toyota’s Pajari and local hero Katsuta.

Read more Evans wins again at the Japan Rally

SS4-SS6: Evans defends the lead

The second half of the day began with Solberg’s attempt to gain ground on the world leader, as demonstrated by the Scandinavian driver’s best performance in the second stage held in Asuke. However, in the following round, Evans returned to dictate terms right in front of Solberg and Ogier, in a stage where Neuville lost fourth overall position to Sami Pajari’s Toyota. A provisional poker for the Japanese manufacturer remained intact at the end of the first day, which concluded in Inabu / Shitara 2, where Pajari finished ahead of everyone. A more disappointing performance from Evans, outside the podium zone, but sufficient to maintain the lead over Solberg and Ogier, with the Swede 15 seconds behind.

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Rally Japan 2026, standings after SS6 (Top-10)