Elfyn Evans is trying not to focus on what is at stake as he heads to Sardinia on the cusp of being crowned Wales’ first World Rally Champion.

The 31-year-old from Dolgellau could seal the title this weekend on soil where he first tasted the thrill of driving the latest generation of WRC cars seven years ago.

But Evans – who has an 18-point lead over his closest rival – is refusing to to get caught-up in the emotion of what is at stake this weekend.

“I have never really had a championship campaign before, but I am much more happy to be fighting at the front,” grinned Evans.

“It is better that way than the other way round but I haven’t given it too much thought.

“Who knows what will happen between now and the end of the season? We know that, ultimately, one retirement and it is flipped on its head again. We have to keep focused for the next rallies.”

Evans only joined the Toyota Gazoo Racing team for this season but victories in Sweden then Turkey last time out has given him a commanding lead.

As team-mate Sebastien Ogier and defending champ Ott Tanak came a cropper on the rock-strewn roads in Turkey, Evans stormed to a stunning third WRC career win.

But Evans knows he might have to wait until next month’s finale in Belgium for the title to be in his hands as he will be first on the road in Sardinia acting as a road-sweeper for those coming after him on the opening day’s special stages.

“I think every driver remembers the first time they got behind the wheel of a World Rally Car, and for that reason, Sardinia will always be a really special place for me,” added Evans.

“It’s not an easy rally, but once you’ve been there a few times you really learn to enjoy the challenging nature of the stages.”