Ott Tänak will join Toyota in 2018

Toyota Gazoo Racing has confirmed the recruitment ofOtt Tänak for the 2018 season WRC. The 30-year-old Estonian distinguished himself by winning two events this year and taking second place in the Championship at the end of the Rally of Catalonia.

The current resident of M-Sport will replace Juho Hänninen and will thus evolve alongside Jari-Matti Latvala and Esapekka Lappi while still being co-driven by Martin Jarveoja. Juho Hänninen's co-driver Kaj Lindström took over as the team's sporting director.

“We are delighted to have secured the services of Ott as we have had our eye on him for a while, confirms Tommi Mäkinen, Team Principal of Toyota Gazoo Racing. IHe represents the perfect blend of youth and experience and has a mental attitude that fits well with the spirit of our team. Like the Yaris WRC, Ott has exceeded expectations this year and I am sure this partnership will combine speed and consistency. »

“I would also like to thank Juho for what he has done for us. He will always be a member of the family and he played an important role in getting the team to where it is.", adds Tommi Mäkinen.

M-Sport regrets to see the departure of Ott Tänak who actively participated in the success of the British team close to the Manufacturers' title.

“It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Ott and Martin after their important part in this year's success, comments team principal Malcolm Wilson. He was always fast. I never had any doubt about his speed since the first day I met him. Over the years, he has become a potential winner and title contender. »