Lampinen was competing in the Finnish national F-Cup rally series alongside driver Joonas Lindroos. The pair were disqualified from the Jyväskylä Winter Rally in February after Lampinen failed a breathalyser test prior to the start. His reading of 0.3 per mille was in clear violation of the regulations, which prohibit any measurable level of alcohol in a competitor’s system.
According to Lampinen, he was breathalysed as part of a random check at the rally office around two hours before the start of the event. A second test was carried out about ten minutes later, showing a reading of 0.25 per mille.
AKK made its ruling in late April, with the organisation’s board deciding to revoke Lampinen’s competition licence for one year. The official reason cited was appearing under the influence of alcohol at a competitive event. The ban covers all licences issued by AKK and is in effect until 22 February 2026.
“I’ve lived in an athlete’s bubble, fully aware of random testing. But this was the first time I had to take a breath test between the recce day and the competition morning,” Lampinen said in a statement RallyJournal.com.
“Now I’m paying a heavy price for my mistake.”
Lampinen has been active in rallying since 1986. His partnership with Joonas Lindroos dates back to 2004, and the duo have started 75 events together.
Despite the setback, Lampinen hinted that he may remain involved in the sport during his ban by supporting young talents in events sanctioned by other motorsport bodies. He also plans to continue his involvement in the Lindroos family’s rally activities.
