P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Neuville: WRC Croatia not a “disaster” after final day error
The Hyundai driver had a 4.9s lead going into the final day of the rally, winning nine out of 16 stages in a tight battle with Toyota’s Elfyn Evans. Unfortunately, both Thierry Neuville and Evans encountered problems in stage 18 on Sunday, dashing their hopes of victory. Neuville’s mishap – hitting a grass bank due to a late pacenote call – cost him 23.3s and damaged his car’s rear wing, leaving him unable to compete in the remaining stages. Despite the setback, Neuville was pleased to match Evans with 19 points and maintain a six-point lead in the championship. Looking ahead, Neuville anticipates a tough fight to retain his lead as the WRC moves to gravel rallies, starting with Portugal next month.
