Quote Originally Posted by COD View Post
He has won many events and been fast almost everywhere. That speaks strongly against you theory. It his head, and that alone that prevents him from ever being a champion
No, it really doesn't speak strongly against it.
This says a lot about the level of risk he needs to take to keep up with Ogier, and this again will affect his psyche.

Take Finland: This is one of the most prestigious rallies to win, and if You are a Finn, this is the one You want on Your resume. For Finns this means that 300.000 + spectators are expecting You to do great things, and cary the flag for them. Finnish drivers have won in Finland, but they have also lost big time (crashed out).
Latvala has had a very strong duel against Ogier for two consecutive years, duels (I was present in 14 with was great) that he one on the last stage. It was close.

I am not saying that Latvala has the strongest psyche known to the athletic world, I am just saying that the rallies he stumbles, is often technical events, or events with grip changes where You have to be very precise to get the victory. And its the uncertainty around not knowing how to drive these rallies safely, and having an opponent that clearly does, that takes its toll.

Latvala is an extremely good rally driver, and he has adjusted a lot the last few years, also in driving technique, but not enough to challenge Ogier for the championship.