Interview - Ogier: That was a dream that came true

Q: Sébastien, you said before this event that you dreamt of winning Finland, the dream is now a reality, how do you feel?

SO: “Of course very well. That was a dream that came true. I am very happy with that. In 2010, I was in a good pace, but not able to fight for the win, but now it’s here. With my team Volkwagen in its first year, I want to congratulate them – it’s incredible.”

Q: Did you have a definite strategy for this event?

SO: “My strategy was to think about the Championship. My start to the race was a bit difficult, I couldn’t find the best pace – I wasn’t able to focus. Then on the second loop I could find more pace when I was sure with the notes. I was pushing and trying to be more safe – with the rain some parts of the stage were tricky and rough. We got through them and finished the rally with no problem.”

Q: On Thursday you said you had too much on your mind to concentrate on the win - what did you mean?

SO: “I knew my closest rival was out of the race for points and then I had a good opportunity to make good points. But, even if it looks really good at this moment you never know and it’s best to secure as many points as early as possible.

"I tried to stay on a good pace on the first loop and then push more and extend the lead in the second loop – this was the good strategy. Like always, I trusted my feeling: when I hesitate I like to keep it a bit back and wait for the next one.”

Q: You won both runs of Ouninpohja and broke the record - how was the stage?

SO: "I mentioned from the start of the rally that I was really looking forward to this stage and I would be trying to drive fast. This was my first time with the World Rally Car and it was impressive to see the speed that we carry the first time. Even if you have watched the video a little bit before and you trust the pace notes 100 per cent, the heart rhythm goes higher. When I was sure with the notes and we pushed, it was a lot of fun.

"In the end, it was hard with the tyres completely gone – it was too hot for the softs. It was fantastic to drive this stage and it’s also a small bonus to have this record."

Q: Can you win the title on the next round?

SO: Mathematically, it’s possible, but quite difficult. The most important thing is that it happens – I don’t care where, if it’s Australia, France or even later, I will be very happy for that. We have seen this weekend that competing is not easy, it looks easy, but in each rally it’s tough. Thierry and Mads have both made a very good job and Mikko as well before his mistake, he also made it look tough.

"It will be a big fight to the end of the season. l hope it [the title] happens as soon as possible to get my mind really clear – then I can push even more completely to the limit. This is another great step.”

Q: I can see Julien (Ingrassia) doing the maths in his head…

JI: We did it on the computer, but I’m not sure it’s possible in Germany.

SO: Yes, because it’s more than three victories for Germany and if Jari-Matti and Mikko don’t score points then it’s possible.

JI: It’s slender…

SO: It’s what I say – I don’t think it’s going to happen.

JOST CAPITO: I just wanted to say that Seb and Julien have been out this world – they were outstanding, especially with Julien coming back and doing all the preparation needed. I am not sure I have ever seen such a performance anywhere.

SO: Thanks a lot Jost and thanks also to JulIen, without him this would not be possible.

JI: Thanks for that, and I have a song for you… just 20 seconds. AC/DC again. It’s a long way to the top for rock and roll!

Q: Julien, you came to this event carrying an injury, how has the shoulder handled the rally?

JI: It has been really great. When I took the decision to come into the car it was not to make him stop in the stage or at the end of the day. Only on one stage I had a little bit of pain, otherwise it was great.

Q: What’s it like to co-drive at those speeds?

JI: Before the event, I was asked if it would be strange to get into the car without testing at this speed, but the body gets used to this after the years. You can feel it. Once you are in the stage and you know the driver will push like hell to make the best time in Ouninpohja then it takes another spirit. It was an experience you cannot forget for sure.

Q: Were there any moments?

JI: I must be honest, he did everything under control. I don’t think we had a moment this weekend. Yeah, one or two times the car lifted a little more than scheduled, but it was under control, congratulations to him he did a really great job.