Rally Japan - Sami Pajari: "We have to appreciate being able to fight for the title"

In the battle for the WRC2 crown, Sami Pajari and his co-driver Enni Mälkönen set off cautiously. Second in the stage set up in the Toyota City stadium, the Finn did not appear crushed by the pressure. Focused on his objective, he knows he must finish at least 2nd on Sunday evening to prevent Oliver Solberg from being crowned.

Published on 21/11/2024 à 13:34

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Rally Japan – Sami Pajari: “We have to appreciate being able to fight for the title”

After the shakedown on Thursday morning and the superspecial in the Toyota City stadium, will Sami Pajari find the solution to win the WRC2 title? (Photo: Nikos Katikis/DPPI)

Given the stakes at the start of this race, in what frame of mind did you approach it?

It is certainly a rally important, but I've been in this type of situation before. You have to appreciate being in this position because it means we've had a good season. We have the chance to win the title and it's probably going to come down to the end of this round.

Now that the superspecial has been contested, what will be your strategy during the time trials in the forests?

Although a 2^e place would be enough, I know full well that there are several competitors who can go very fast. It will not be easy. Even if the weather remains mild, we will have to continue to be wary, because we know that the special stages will remain tricky with surprising changes in grip. We will do as we have done throughout the year, that is to say by concentrating on ourselves.

What are your feelings in the Toyota Yaris Rally2 on asphalt?

They are not bad. We managed to get a 3^e podium place in Croatia this year. I know Central Europe was on a different car, but I felt comfortable on this surface."

Friday starts with the SS featuring the famous Isegami Tunnel, which is also the longest section of the weekend. How do you plan to approach it?

It is certainly one of the most demanding specials of this event because of its very tormented profile and its length. For 2 years, something has always happened there. This may still be the case. We will have to find the balance between attacking and managing the conditions.