ELFYN Evans will bid to write history again this weekend.

Less than 12 months after becoming the first Welsh driver to win the Wales Rally GB the Dolgellau star defends his title in the 11th round of the World Rally Championship (WRC).

The event is earlier this year to accommodate the British Rally Championship (BRC) and will see the eyes of the rally world fixed on Wales.

While the event starts and finishes in Llandudno the real action takes place on the famous stages of Mid Wales.

The Wales Rally GB is an iconic event steeped in motorsport history and known as one of the biggest challenges of the year for crews with the unpredictable conditions part of its legend.

Evans’ victory last year ensured himself a place in Welsh rallying history and a corner on the Myherin stage named after him in honour.

The M-Sport Ford star will once again be joined by co-driver Daniel Barritt in taking on the famous Myherin, Sweet Lamb Hafren, Dyfi, Gartheiniog and Dyfnant stages twice in between a regroup in Newtown town centre on Saturday.

The popular regroup will see thousands of rally fans from across the world descend on Newtown with the first car expected at 1.15pm.

Evans said: “Competing at home always brings special motivation.

“We have some of the best stages in the world in Wales and when you see all the Welsh flags and fans cheering you on you can’t help but feel a real sense of pride.

“The win last year is something that we will never forget. There’s always something special about that first victory, but doing it on home soil with all of our family and friends there was really special and something we definitely want to replicate again this year.

“The aim is to be in the fight for another win, but we know it won’t be easy.

“This is an event that everyone wants to win and the three guys up front will all be pushing extremely hard. The stages are fast, and mistakes are not easily forgiven, but we will give it our best.

“Experience counts for a lot, and we will be looking to put all of our local knowledge to good use.”