Pajari ready for the “big challenge” of asphalt with the Toyota Yaris Rally1 in Central Europe

Third rally in the premier class and a new challenge for Sami Pajari this weekend. The young Finn continues his apprenticeship at the top level with a first appearance in Rally1 on an asphalt event, during the Central Europe Rally. Very convincing during the Rally Finland and then in Chile despite execrable conditions, the 22-year-old driver will test himself on a new surface aboard the Toyota GR Yaris Rally1.

“This is the first time I use a Rally1 on asphalt and I am sure it will be a great challenge, says Sami Pajari. I did the rally in WRC2 last year and it was really tricky in places, with some nicer parts too. The stages are a bit different in each of the three countries, and at this time of year the weather can be quite unpredictable. But for now it’s about taking on those challenges and learning from them.

“I think we did a good job in Finland and Chile and I’m sure it will be the same on this rally: when we feel good we can do good times, and if there are more risks or tricky conditions you have to take a step back to gain experience and not rush too much.”, he emphasizes, aware that it will first be essential to finish the rally before thinking about the classification..

Pajari in a duel against Katsuta in Central Europe?

Last year, in the Skoda Fabia Rally2, Sami Pajari finished fifth among the Rally5s on the Central Europe Rally, but was not eligible for WRC2 points. The Finn finished the rally without any major problems but was never in the running for victory, finishing more than two minutes behind the winner, on a rally where the abutments are quickly dug and can be tricky as the stages go by.

This year, with the Yaris Rally1, Toyota's protégé will have to learn how to handle a more powerful and aerodynamic car on tarmac roads. In the Japanese clan, they don't want to put pressure on him: "This rally will be something new for Sami (…) for him it will be about learning and gaining experience", said Toyota Team Principal Jari-Matti Latvala.

No expectations in terms of results then… even if in Central Europe, Sami Pajari could well play for his place in 2025. For the second time this season, he will be directly confronted (and compared) with Takamoto Katsuta, who is back behind the wheel of the Yaris after being sidelined for the Rally Chile. A duel between teammates that will be one of the main stakes of this European event.

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