Takamoto Katsuta has seized the World Rally Championship lead after a dramatic victory at Rally Croatia. The Toyota driver inherited the win when Thierry Neuville crashed while in a commanding position, handing Katsuta his first championship success and a crucial points advantage.

Sami Pajari finished second in a Toyota, just 20.7 seconds behind, with Hayden Paddon's Hyundai taking third place over two minutes back. Neuville ultimately finished seventh, a staggering 20 seconds behind his own winning pace. Josh McErlean in the M-Sport Ford came home fourth, while championship contender Elfyn Evans struggled to eighth place.

The result leaves Katsuta atop the standings with 81 points, seven clear of Evans on 74. Oliver Solberg sits third with 68 points, followed by Pajari on 53. Katsuta's unexpected triumph marks a dramatic shift in the championship battle after three rounds.