Sami Pajari, torn between satisfaction and frustration: "We were really close to victory"

Second at the Rally Croatia, Sami Pajari achieved his best result in the WRC and secured his third consecutive podium finish. A solid performance, but one that suggests even higher ambitions for the rest of the season.

Published 13/04/2026 à 09:42

Comment on this article! ⁰

Sami Pajari, torn between satisfaction and frustration: "We were really close to victory."

When reflecting on the weekend, Sami Pajari has mixed feelings. The raw result is undeniably positive, with a second-place finish that confirms his consistency and progress since the start of the season. But behind this performance, the Finn doesn't hide a certain frustration, linked to how the race unfolded. rally and to an opportunity he believes is close. Leading the rally until Saturday midday, the Finn suffered a puncture in a truly epic SS14.

“In the end, it was a really positive rally for us. I should be really, really satisfied. It’s actually the first time I’ve finished second. I’d only finished third three times. Plus, it’s my third consecutive podium, so it’s not too bad at the moment. But at the same time, deep down, I have this feeling that we were really close to victory. In short, it’s a bit of a mixed feeling, but at least there’s even more motivation for the next rallies.”he explained to AUTOhebdo.

This speech illustrates an evolution in his approach. Pajari is no longer content with simply accumulating experience; he now sees himself as a credible contender for victory. This progression is accompanied by higher expectations, both personally and in terms of managing weekends.

Already focused on the rest of the championship, the Finnish driver is confident in his ability to take another step forward in the next rounds, particularly in the Canary Islands. "Looking at the bigger picture, I'd say it should be much better than in Croatia, and Croatia was surprisingly good this time. So I really hope we can do better there." A mix of satisfaction and high expectations that confirms Sami Pajari is gradually establishing himself among the leading figures in the field. WRCwith victory now the stated objective. The Spanish rally will take place from April 23rd to 26th.

Interview conducted by Pierre Barré, in Croatia.

ALSO READ > Rally Croatia: Cruel disappointment for Neuville who made a mistake, Katsuta inherits the victory