The driver from Finland shared an update on Monday. Lappi revealed he is still negotiating with his former team, Hyundai, about the upcoming season but remains open to other options.
Hyundai has already confirmed three full-time drivers for next season, but it remains unclear whether the Korean manufacturer will introduce a fourth car to challenge Toyota. Toyota can field up to five Rally1 cars in WRC events, whereas Hyundai currently plans to run only three. It’s possible Hyundai may expand its programme and field a fourth car in select events.
“I haven’t shared updates recently because there hasn’t been much to share. There still isn’t, but let’s call this a mid-point summary,” Lappi said in a video posted on his Instagram.
“The end of the year didn’t go as I had hoped, but that can’t be changed now. We’ve been discussing what we could do this year. Talks with Hyundai are still ongoing, but we are also openly exploring other options, including different racing series”
Lappi emphasised that nothing has been decided yet. While it’s possible that Lappi might not compete in 2025, his social media update suggests he has been actively exploring opportunities over the holiday season.
“The situation is pretty open, which isn’t great but, in a way, is liberating. I’m not tied to anything, which feels good to some extent. All I can do now is enjoy these winter days and see if plans take shape in the coming weeks,” Lappi commented.
What is certain, however, is that Lappi will not participate in the season-opening Rally Monte Carlo, which takes place from 23–26 January. Hyundai will compete in the rally with three cars driven by Ott Tänak, Adrien Fourmaux, and Thierry Neuville.
