Elfyn Evans remains in second place at Rallye Monte Carlo after a dramatic Friday in the World Rally Championship. The Welsh Toyota driver trails leader Oliver Solberg by one minute and eight seconds. Reigning champion Sebastien Ogier surged into third, closing to within 6.5 seconds of Evans after winning two final stages.

The day proved costly for others. Jon Armstrong slipped from third to sixth after a puncture and ditch incident cost him three minutes. His M-Sport teammate Josh McErlean retired after getting stuck in a snowbank. The challenging Alpine conditions continue to separate the field as the season opener progresses.

Saturday brings four more stages, with Ogier closing fast on the Toyota pair. Evans acknowledged the tight battle, stating it will be a 'classic Monte' until the end. For Armstrong, salvaging points from sixth is now the goal after his early setback. The rally continues through Sunday.