The Japanese manufacturer celebrated its fifth consecutive manufacturers’ title and also secured a triple podium in the drivers’ standings. Sébastien Ogier celebrated in Saudi Arabia on Saturday, claiming the ninth world title of his career. Elfyn Evans once again had to settle for silver, and Kalle Rovanperä, who is wrapping up his rally career, collected the bronze.
Toyota’s frontman Akio Toyoda could only admire Ogier’s cool-headedness.
“Wow! He is surely strong! When I watch Seb, that’s the thought that comes to mind. Congratulations on the ninth championship, and congratulations to Vincent on his first title as well!” Toyoda writes.
Toyoda also heartily congratulated Evans, although another second place is unlikely to warm the Welshman’s spirits.
“I’m not sure if it’s OK to say congratulations on another silver medal, but Elfyn’s consistent driving is truly valuable to the team. And we will be counting on him to bring our GR YARIS safely to the finish line next year as well. If he does so, I’m sure great things will happen.”
Kalle Rovanperä thus leaves the special stages as a two-time champion and this season’s bronze medallist. Toyoda vowed to follow the Finnish driver’s progress next year in Japan’s Super Formula series.
“The youngest WRC winner, breaking Jari-Matti’s (Latvala) record, the youngest champion at 22 years and one day old, winning a rally as a late substitute for Seb, finally achieving a victory in his home country Finland, and then a new challenge in circuit racing… I really enjoyed being on the same team with Kalle, and I’m looking forward to seeing him at a circuit in Japan next year,” Toyoda enthuses.
“Juha (Kankkunen), Jari-Matti, and everyone in the team, thank you so much for the hard work this season and bringing the manufacturers’ championship. I hope everybody takes a good rest for a while. Merry Christmas!”
At the end of his letter, Toyoda once again sends his regards to Estonia’s Ott Tänak, who celebrated what remains his only world title with Toyota in 2019. Since then, Tänak has mainly driven for Hyundai, but further titles have not followed. After this season, Tänak will take a break from the WRC, at least for the time being.
“P.S. Ott, thank you as well,” Toyoda concludes his letter enigmatically.
