Ogier wins Rally of Poland

"We have put together seven perfect rallies and, although it's a bit early for predictions, I think I have taken a huge step towards a third title," said the two-time defending champion.

With French co-driver Julien Ingrassia, Ogier took the seventh round of the Lotos Rally Poland in Baranowo, north-eastern Poland, on 5 July.

The 31-year-old Frenchman led the seventh round of the series from Friday afternoon, holding off Volkswagen Polo R teammate Andreas Mikkelsen of Norway, winning by 11.9 seconds after almost 300 kilometres in very hot weather.

Ogier's 29th career success took him to 161 points in the drivers' standings, the only driver with over 10 points. Mikkelsen is a distant second on 83 points, with six races of the season remaining. (jh)