The driver from Finland chose to take on a part-time role in the World Rally Championship. The exact number of events Lappi will compete in for the 2024 season is not yet known, but he is estimated to participate in about 5-7 rounds.
Lappi previously stated that he made his decision because, among other reasons, his children missed their father at home. Of course, the father himself missed his family during long rally trips. Lappi may be willing to return to a full-time role in the WRC in the future, although it’s no longer solely up to him.
If Lappi ever wants to chase his big dream of winning the WRC title, it would require a more significant commitment, meaning a full season in the series.
“It’s not out of the question, though it seems quite unlikely at the moment. This certainly doesn’t exclude it from Hyundai’s perspective either. And I don’t want to rule it out myself. We’ll see how situations evolve and develop, as the children are growing up,” Lappi told RallyJournal.com.
“Then again, if this turns out to be a really functional solution, I don’t know why I would want to try again to see if it’s better or ends up being worse. I’d prefer to stay with what feels good.”
Despite having more free time, Lappi hasn’t made any big plans.
“I still have backlog chores at home that need to be taken care of. Maybe I’ll take a bit more time for myself. Of course, for the family, but also for myself and for my relationship, it’s important to dedicate time,” Lappi shares during his tests before Christmas.
“This week, my spouse and I spent a night away from home alone, and it felt quite nice. It was nice to be with her too. So, something like this, no grand plans really. I want to spend time with my loved ones.”
The 2024 World Rally Championship season kicks off in Monte Carlo at the end of January. Lappi is highly likely to return to the wheel of Hyundai’s Rally1 car in Sweden in February.
