Jarmo Lehtinen leaves Toyota

Jarmo Lehtinen, le co-pilote de Mikko Hirvonen chez Ford et Citroën, avait rejoint le Toyota Gazoo Racing en tant que directeur sportif en WRC for the return of the Japanese brand at the start of the season. After less than a season, however, he decided to leave the structure.

« The results we have achieved together are fantastic and I am very proud to have made my contribution., explains the Finn. I hope the team thrives on these solid foundations for seasons to come as I turn a new page in my own career."

Lehtinen had the opportunity to watch Jari-Matti Latvala's victories at the Rally of Sweden and Esapekka Lappi at the last Rally Finland.

 « Jarmo was one of the founders of our project, said Tommi Mäkinen, Team Principal. We are extremely grateful to him. As well as being a dedicated sporting director, he is a friend to us all and we wish him the best for the future."

Lehtinen's replacement has not been announced and his responsibilities will be handled by engineer Christopher Rowden and team manager Timo Kankkunen.