Two world champions in the car: Ogier and Carlsen

Double World Rally champion Sebastien Ogier hosted another world champion in his work place, in the cockpit of Volkswagen Polo R WRC. His guest was Chess World champion Magnus Carlsen. The 24-year-old Norwegian is the youngest world champion in the history of the sport, who became a Grandmaster in the age of 13.

On his trip to Wolfsburg, chess genius Carlsen jumped into the racing suit and took his place alongside Ogier as his co-driver. The two-time rally World Champion not only showed Carlsen his place of work and what everyday testing is like, he also really went for it sideways on the handling course near Wolfsburg. Carlsen was impressed by the trip in the 318 hp Polo.

“It’s fantastic how Sébastien masters his car and flings it around the corners. Chess and rallying have more in common than you would think. They both require utmost concentration and precision. And you always have to look two steps ahead,” said Carlsen.

“I was delighted to meet Magnus. He is a great guy and a really interesting personality. As Chess World Champion, naturally he has an incredible memory. It’s crazy what Magnus can keep in his head. In the cockpit I noticed that he was really enjoying himself. I bet he could recite entire special stages after the ‘recce’ without even looking at the pace notes,” said Ogier.