When the World Rally Championship resumed this week after almost a six-month corona break, Estonia hosted the competition.
Then the reigning world champion Ott Tänak stepped forward.
Esten, who broke the World Cup premiere in Monaco and finished second in the two subsequent races, took the lead on the third leg and then never released it.
Irishman second
When the 17th and final leg was completed, it was then clear: It was a home victory.
The victory margin in the end was a full 22.2 seconds ahead of the Irishman Craig Breen.
- It feels fantastic of course, said a seemingly relieved Tänak shortly after the finish.
- Even if you drive at home, you do not know all the tracks, but you know the support from everyone here at home.
Winning the first World Rally Championship in Estonia is of course incredible.
"Started cautiously"
SVT Sports expert Jonas Kruse was impressed by Tänak, who he describes as a smarter driver now than a few years ago:
- He started this competition carefully on the first leg.
Then on the other he drove a little faster but at a little more reasonable speed.
Then he worked his way into the competition, he said, praising his ability to handle the press:
- He would just win this.
He was the big favorite and it was a home competition.
It is not easy to deliver as he does.
Frenchman Sebastien Ogier, who finished third today, still leads the World Cup series with three races left to run.
With the victory, Tänak climbs up from fifth to third place.