Latvala took charge as team boss for the opening rounds in Monte Carlo and Sweden. After that, he handed over responsibilities to Juha Kankkunen, who was appointed as Toyota’s deputy team principal for the 2025 season.
Since March, Latvala has focused on competing in the FIA European Historic Rally Championship, where he won the first two rounds alongside co-driver Janni Hussi. However, last weekend the Finnish pair were forced to retire in France due to an electrical issue in their Toyota Celica.
With a break of over a month in the historic series, Latvala now has a window to return to team principal duties at Toyota.
“That’s what we’ve agreed on at least – Jari-Matti will be in Sardinia. He probably won’t have time for any of the other rallies,” Kankkunen revealed.
“As we discussed earlier, I’ll be present at all the remaining events,” he added.
Earlier this spring, Latvala told RallyJournal.com that he will also definitely attend the Rally Japan in November – Toyota’s home event. It is likely both Latvala and Kankkunen will be present in Japan, where they serve as key marketing faces for the Japanese manufacturer.
Kankkunen will skip the upcoming Rally Sardinia, but after that, his Toyota responsibilities will ramp up significantly.
“Chile and Paraguay will be a month-long trip. I’ll stay there the whole time,” Kankkunen said.
Kankkunen made his debut as team principal at the Safari Rally in Kenya – and was immediately rewarded with a victory. Toyota has been in excellent form this season, securing wins in all five rallies so far.
“We’re getting victories, even if sometimes things have been a bit shaky. It’s been quite enjoyable. This is a great team to work with,” Kankkunen praised.
“I’m sure the drivers and all of us enjoy working here, because the spirit within the team is so good.”
