Toyota confirms its dominance in Sweden: "I didn't imagine finishing with four cars in the top 4"

Si Toyota expected to win the Rally In Sweden, the Japanese manufacturer's dominance was so complete that Jari-Matti Latvala was surprised. A few days before the start of the second round of the 2026 season... WRCHowever, the Team Manager told AUTOweekly, present on site: Let's be honest, it will be hard to do as well as in Monte Carlo. "However, reality exceeded his expectations."

After a top 3 finish dominated by Toyota at the Monte Carlo Rally, not three but four Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 cars finished among the four fastest crews of the weekend. It was a fantastic weekend. I wasn't expecting that after the Monte Carlo results. he wonders. I thought we could win, but not that we'd have four cars in the top four. We did things well. »

While Jari-Matti Latvala was concerned about the potential of Hyundai In this Scandinavian round, the Korean brand encountered more difficulties than expected, its drivers looking dejected throughout the event. Looking back, in 2024, Hyundai was very strong. They almost won the Manufacturers' Championship. Last year, something changed. They had grip issues. We tried to develop our car. I don't know if we actually made progress or if they simply encountered difficulties. I hope they come back to give us a real challenge, because we love battling against other cars. recognizes Jari-Matti Latvala. We have drivers who want to be world champions. They push us to work hard and improve. »

Toyota, for its part, proved unstoppable at the Rally Sweden. Elfyn Evans secured his third victory with 34 points out of a possible 35, Sami Pajari earned his second WRC podium, and Oliver Solberg finished a respectable fourth on home soil after a somewhat chaotic Friday. The Japanese manufacturer thus remains firmly in control of the championship, now led by Evans.

Expectations are therefore high for the next round, scheduled for March 12-15 in Kenya, the last edition of which was won by the current championship leader. However, having the best car will not necessarily be Toyota's primary advantage. In Kenya, reliability and endurance are paramount, as is the passion of the drivers. Maximum performance isn't the priority; reliability and a good understanding of the conditions are key. explains the director of the Japanese team. Even without the best conditions, it's possible to aim for a podium finish, or even win this rally. You have to expect the unexpected. »

For this third round of the season, the 2025 World Rally Champion, Sébastien Ogier, will be back behind the wheel of his Toyota GR Yaris Rally1.

Interview conducted by Pierre Barré, in Sweden. 

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