The WRC regular will participate in the iconic Arctic Lapland Rally, commonly known as the Tunturiralli, for the second time in his career. This time, however, he won’t be behind the wheel but reading notes for Ville Kaukonen, better known for his drifting exploits.
Suninen has never served as a co-driver in a competition before, making this a new experience for both of them.
“I’m really looking forward to this project. The ‘magic of the Arctic’ captivated me back in 2014 when I competed in my first Finnish Rally Championship event there. When Ville asked me to join, the proposal sounded great. Being a co-driver might even benefit me as a driver, giving me a completely new perspective,” Suninen explains.
This year, Suninen competed in five WRC events in the WRC2 category with Hyundai’s Rally2 car. His plans for next year remain unclear, but for now, it’s confirmed he’ll be at the Arctic Rally in late January and early February.
“My current co-driving experience is three notes while in a WRC car on a very technical road—and I was already late. Let’s hope I won’t be a brake for Ville, but that I can help with pacing and enjoy every kilometre of the rally,” Suninen jokes.
For Kaukonen, who will be competing as a rally driver for the first time, the Arctic Rally will be an entirely new adventure.
“A year ago, I was in Tenerife, enjoying the sun while the Arctic Rally was happening in Finland. With a cold drink in hand, I started thinking how amazing it would be to experience that adventure myself,” Kaukonen recalls.
“We’ve been working on the budget recently, and although there’s still work to do, Teemu and I will definitely be on the starting line when the cars set off from Lordi’s Square to the first stage,” Kaukonen promises.
Kaukonen and Suninen will compete in the Finnish Rally Championship’s Suomi Cup category in Rovaniemi, driving a BMW E36 Sedan 325i rented from Teemu Asunmaa’s team. Since the category involves pace notes, Kaukonen will need to complete both a rally licence test and a pace note certification.
