Heading to Kenya last year in search of his third consecutive podium finish, everything went awry for Lappi.
From the get-go during the shakedown, he faced issues with the propshaft, which ultimately failed completely. Prior to that, Lappi was in a good position, but the ordeal culminated in a retirement on Saturday.
This year, Lappi heads to Kenya with confidence, riding on the back of his career’s second victory in February’s Rally Sweden.
“I will try to do the best I can in the next rally,” Lappi stated on the World Rally Championship’s official website.
“We will see how it develops there. The targets will be a bit flexible, like always through the weekend, so we need to adjust to them as we go,” Lappi continued.
The propshaft wasn’t the only issue with the car last year. Hyundai’s cars seemed hardly capable of withstanding the challenges presented by the demanding rally.
This year, however, Lappi is slightly better prepared for Safari’s stages.
“At least I go there knowing what the roads are like and what I can expect,” said Lappi.
“I think we will be better prepared and the car should be more reliable,” he continued.
Many were surprised to see Lappi’s season continuing in Kenya. However, he enjoyed what he saw last year and wants to experience it all over again, hopefully with better luck this time.
“Last year it was an incredible experience with amazing views and people. OK, the competition was not so good for me, but everything else was. I’m looking forward to it,” Lappi said with a smile.
The Safari Rally is the third round of the WRC season and is scheduled to take place in its traditional ‘rainy season slot from 28th to 31st March.
