Volkswagen Motorsport director Jost Capito laid bare his emotions after striking back with the perfect result to claim the manufacturer’s title in the World Rally Championship for the second successive year.
In a one-two-three sweep of the factory Polo R machines, VW managed to do at Coates Hire Rally Australia what they failed to achieve on home soil in Germany last month.
Both its star drivers Sebastien Ogier and Jari-Matti Latvala climbed off the canvass to finish first and second after crashing out of the lead in the proceeding German rally.
Andreas Mikkelsen withstood a mighty challenge from Kris Meeke to clinch third in the #9 Polo.
Capito showed a rare emotional side at the press conference as he praised his drivers, squad and every employee at the marque, for their monumental effort to secure the title after tension filled scenes three weeks ago.
“It’s really overwhelming. I just love you guys,” said Capito in a teary tribute to his three crews.
“It’s such a great team. You are fighting for positions and you have such a good attitude.
“You are sitting having breakfast together, then lunch and then you are fighting each other on the stages.
“I’ve never seen a team like that and I’m so proud of you.
“I would like to dedicate this one-two-three to and the manufacturers championship to over the 500,000 VW employees globally who support us, who are with us and who make it possible to be here.”
With one title already wrapped up, lead driver Sebastien Ogier is in prime position to retain his drivers’ title following a hard fought victory by a narrow 6.8s margin at Coffs Harbour.
The Frenchman now heads to his home rally determined to scoop the coveted honour in front of his home crowd but believe she will face a severe battle to do so.
“Its a crucial step to retaining the title but it is not enough still but with three rallies to go we need to score 34 points I believe, so one more victory will be enough so that will be the target in France,” Ogier told Speedcafe.com.
“I have a fantastic memories from winning my first title there and this time I need the victory so lets wait and see.
“I just need to stay clever and be fast and strong but I will have to give everything to win.”
The World Rally Championship heads to the Alsace region of France for round 11 of the season on October 3-5.
Coates Hire Rally Australia Day 3 Wrap
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