The manufacturers’ championship battle seemed almost out of reach, but Toyota scored 18 points more than their arch-rival Hyundai in Chile. As a result, Hyundai’s once-commanding lead in the championship shrank to just 17 points.
This week, the penultimate round of the season will take place in the border regions of the Czech Republic, Germany, and Austria. Toyota’s team heads into the Central European Rally with confidence.
“Our result in Chile was a big motivation boost for the whole team. Having halved the gap, we have shown that the manufacturers’ championship race remains open and everything is still possible, so we’re very much looking forward to the Central European Rally,” Latvala says.
“This rally is a big challenge for the crews and last year we saw difficult conditions with a lot of rain and mud. Our car has been working well in those conditions and I think our drivers are ready for the challenge.”
Driving for team points in Central Europe are Sebastien Ogier, Elfyn Evans, and Takamoto Katsuta. Of the three, Katsuta is the wildcard, as he was benched for the previous Rally Chile due to poor performances. Sami Pajari will drive a fourth Toyota, but the young Finn won’t be under pressure to deliver team points.
“To see that Seb still has so much speed and motivation is really pushing the team on, while Elfyn’s strong weekend in Chile has helped his confidence, and I’m sure that both of them can be fighting at the front,” Latvala reflects.
“For Taka, the target will be to have a solid rally, score some points and find a good feeling in the car ahead of Rally Japan. Meanwhile, this rally will be something new for Sami driving our Rally1 car on asphalt for the first time and for him it will be all about learning and gaining experience.”
The Central European Rally kicks off on Thursday morning with a shakedown near the Czech capital, Prague. In the afternoon, there will be a Super Special stage and the first full-length stage in Klatovy.
