CHAMPIONSHIP leader Elfyn Evans heads to Rally Chile determined to maintain his advantage in the FIA World Rally Championship as the battle for the 2026 crown enters its final stages.

The Dolgellau driver arrives in South America for round 12 of the 14-event season holding a 20-point lead over Toyota Gazoo Racing team-mate Sami Pajari, whose recent victory in Rally del Paraguay marked a third consecutive win.

With three rallies remaining, Evans remains firmly in control of the title race, although Pajari's strong run of form has ensured the championship fight remains wide open. Toyota also stands on the brink of the manufacturers' title, leading by 173 points with 180 still available.

Rally Chile marks the fifth WRC visit to the gravel roads of the Biobío region around Concepción. The event is known for its fast and technical stages, although changing weather conditions can play a major role. Dry conditions can leave the roads loose and abrasive, while rain can turn stages muddy and reduce visibility.

Evans, who has extensive experience of competing in difficult conditions, expects another demanding challenge.

"After Paraguay we know that we can look forward to a similarly warm welcome from the fans in Chile," he said."The rally is generally quite a fast one with flowing stages that are usually good to drive, but the

challenge depends a lot on the weather, which can change quite dramatically during the weekend.

"When it's dry, the surface can be very loose for the early cars and extremely abrasive, so tyre management becomes very important. When it's wet, it can get pretty muddy, similar to what you might find in Wales, and the fog can also make things extremely difficult."

With the championship entering its decisive phase, Evans will be aiming for a strong points haul to strengthen his bid for a maiden world title.