Neuville claimed the spoils in the inaugural three- country asphalt rally that saw the WRC compete across the Czech Republic, Austria and Germany in one event for the first time. The Belgian took his second victory of the season by 57.6s from Rovanpera.
However, the result was enough for Rovanpera and co-driver Jonne Halttunen to become only the sixth pairing in WRC history to defend the world title after Toyota team-mate and rival Elfyn Evans failed to outscore the 23-year-old Finn.
