Yet dominant in Monte-Carlo thanks to its champion Sébastien Ogier, Toyota Gazoo Racing had to settle for 2nd place after the Tricolore's puncture in the penultimate special, leaving the field open to Sébastien Loeb et M-Sport. Despite this disillusionment, the TGR showed itself in good form by winning 10 of the 17 special stages on the program for this 2022 edition of the Monaco classic. A good omen for the Rally from Sweden at the end of February (24th to 27th).
« Even though luck was not on our side in Monte-Carlo, we were able to see the reliability and speed of the Yaris Rally1. This is encouraging for Sweden, explains Jari-Matti Latvala, team director who does not hide his confidence a few days before departure. I have fond memories of Rally Sweden as a driver, including our team's first victory in 2017. This is an event that has been successful for us in the past. »
To perhaps return to victory, Toyota will be able to rely on Esapekka Lappi who will take the wheel of one of the four Yaris Rally1 entered by the TGR, replacing freelancer Sébastien Ogier. A significant asset since the Finn appreciates the conditions of the Swedish Rally where he has never left the Top 5 in 3 participations.
« We are happy to welcome Esapekka to our team for her first event with us this season, continues Jari-Matti Latvala. Like Elfyn and Kalle, he has been strong in these conditions before. I believe that all four drivers have the potential to have a very good weekend if everything goes well for them.
Everyone goes there with a similar level of experience with new cars in these conditions. The rally will also take place in a completely new area around Umeå (northern Sweden), where we should be assured of a good amount of snow. The profile of the stages will be different from what we were used to before. » It's up to Jari-Matti Latvala and his men to try to do well now.
Who else is looking forward to seeing @EsapekkaLappi back in action next week at #RallySweden? 🙌#ToyotaGAZOORacing #GRYaris # Rally1 #WRC pic.twitter.com/Wm3YI1MiXz
- TOYOTA GAZOO Racing WRT (@TGR_WRC) February 15, 2022
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