British driver Elfyn Evans led a podium sweep by Toyota at the Rally Japan on Sunday, the season-ending event of the 2023 World Rally Championship.

Britain's Elfyn Evans drives his Toyota Yaris during the 20th stage of the Rally Japan in Ena, Gifu Prefecture, on Nov. 19, 2023. (Kyodo)

Evans held on to a commanding overnight lead for his third win of the 13-event season with a total of 3 hours, 32 minutes, 8.8 seconds in the four-day event contested over 22 stages in Aichi and Gifu prefectures.

France's Sebastien Ogier finished second, 1 minute, 17.7 seconds back. Finland's Kalle Rovanpera was 1:46.5 behind the winner in third, followed by Hyundai's Finnish driver Esapekka Lappi.

Britain's Elfyn Evans (top, C, R) celebrates with Toyota team staff at Toyota Stadium in Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, after winning the Rally Japan on Nov. 19, 2023. (Kyodo)

Rovanpera had already secured the top spot in the 2023 championship standings before the final event in Japan.

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