Hyundai has had a strong start to the season. Two competitions, two victories.
“I’m moved for Esapekka and Janne,” Abiteboul began.
“I’m still coming to terms with how rally evokes such deep emotions. This rewards their work and the risks they’ve taken. Last year was very emotional with Craig Breen, and Esapekka is also a very emotional person. I’m very pleased to work with people who have such character, who believe in themselves and their values.”
Lappi’s previous WRC level victory was at Rally Finland in 2017.
“It’s been a long wait for this. Six years,” said Abiteboul.
Lappi’s victory started to take shape on Saturday when the only real challenger, Toyota’s Takamoto Katsuta, dropped out due to a crash. After that, Lappi was just securing his lead for a couple of days.
“And for us, those two days probably almost feel like six years,” joked Abiteboul.
“We sort of knew that there was a good position coming here with the third car. But that certainly has helped,” said Abiteboul.
Esapekka Lappi’s second career victory ultimately came quite easily, but the Hyundai boss wanted to specifically highlight the Finn’s contribution.
“We should not underestimate the work done, because we received a call back to reality from Toyota this morning.”
