Hyundai driver Lappi performed well in Thursday’s shakedown, but when it comes to the actual rally, he won’t be pushing for the top spots. The reason for this is clear.
“The plan is to bring some points to the team. That’s the main target, or actually, the only target for us,” Lappi said after the shakedown on Thursday.
“As we all know, we are in a good situation in all the championships. So it’s very important that we can collect some points. They don’t need to be top points, but at least something for the team. And then that’s the job done.”
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Hyundai holds a solid 35-point lead over Toyota in the manufacturers’ championship with three rounds remaining, putting them close to their first title since 2020. In the drivers’ championship, Hyundai also holds the top two spots – Thierry Neuville leads, 34 points ahead of Ott Tänak.
Lappi was asked if he had a chance to challenge Toyota’s Kalle Rovanperä on the Chilean gravel stages.
“No,” Lappi responded concisely.
“Sometimes it’s like this. But it’s a team game, and you need to accept all the tasks that your boss gives you. Now it’s time to do that.”
Lappi’s role is to ensure that he can bring points to the team if Hyundai’s top drivers run into problems over the weekend.
There are still big question marks regarding Lappi’s future, as he has only competed in select rallies this season. It’s possible that Rally Chile could even be his last event at the highest level.
On Thursday, Lappi didn’t reveal much about his future plans.
“On Monday morning, I’ll go home. The rest, I don’t know,” Lappi joked.
