The rally, part of the Finnish F-Cup series, was a showcase of Latvala’s skill behind the wheel of his Toyota Celica. Although Latvala’s professional driving career ended several years ago, his driving abilities remain sharp.
Latvala has maintained his form by regularly participating in smaller rallies alongside his duties as Toyota’s team principal. This victory marked his first win with co-driver Hussi.
Hussi first sat alongside Latvala as his co-driver during the Lahti Historic Rally in August, where the pair were forced to retire due to a technical issue.
In the Hakevuori Rally, held around Kerava, Latvala secured victory by nearly a minute over Jussi Lindberg.
“It was a good day. Two kilometres before the end of the last stage, I was already thinking how disappointing it was that it’s ending. I would have liked to keep going – we’d just found our rhythm,” Latvala laughed.
“We’ll have to try to drive more next year. There’s just something about rallying – it’s such a great thing to do, no doubt about it.”
Latvala will get behind the wheel again this year in South Korea, where he’ll participate in an event jointly organised by Hyundai and Toyota. He has also stated that he would like to compete more in the European Historic Rally Championship next season.
