P1racenews AI automatic summary:
WRC Central Europe: Rovanpera clinches second world title, Neuville wins rally
Thierry Neuville emerged as the winner of the three-country asphalt rally, making it the first time the WRC competed across the Czech Republic, Austria, and Germany in a single event. He finished 57.6 seconds ahead of Rovanpera. As a result, Rovanpera and co-driver Jonne Halttunen became the sixth pairing in WRC history to defend their world title. Ott Tanak from M-Sport secured the third spot, finishing 1 minute and 52.8 seconds behind Neuville. The rally saw extreme wet conditions on Friday, favoring Rovanpera and Evans, who benefited from their higher road order. However, Rovanpera made a mistake on stage 10, allowing Neuville to close the gap. Evans also encountered trouble when he ran off the road, but he rejoined on Sunday and won the Power Stage. With the title almost secured, Rovanpera chose not to push, allowing Neuville to take the lead and cruise to victory. Tanak finished third, while Sebastein Ogier came in fourth after battling an illness and a puncture.
Source: motorsport
