Hussi’s career as a co-driver began two years ago at this very event. Back then, as a complete rookie in the passenger seat of a rally car, Hussi was reading pace notes for young Finnish hopeful Sami Pajari.
Last weekend, sitting on Hussi’s left was none other than Jari-Matti Latvala – Toyota’s current team principal and the most experienced driver in WRC history. The pair drove Latvala’s Toyota Celica (ST165).
Latvala and Hussi’s rally started off with a bang as they set the fastest time on the first stage, but a technical issue with the Toyota on the second stage forced them to retire for the day.
They were able to rejoin the rally after the overnight break, and on the second day, they set the fastest time on every stage.
“This was absolutely fantastic. Of course, we had a bit of bad luck,” Hussi said, referring to the engine nearly failing due to a timing belt issue.
“But it was really fun. This brought me back to two years ago, reminding me why I fell in love with this sport. My cheeks were almost cramping. That tends to happen quite often in this sport,” Hussi smiled.
Read also: Jari-Matti Latvala gives his assessment of Janni Hussi’s performance
In her first race with Latvala, only one thing bothered Hussi – the retirement on the first day.
“It still bugs me. I’d be lying if I said otherwise. It would have been nice to drive the full Friday, but that’s how rallying goes sometimes,” Hussi said.
This year, Hussi was the co-driver for Lauri Joona in the WRC2 class of the World Rally Championship. Now, she faces new challenges after announcing post-Rally Finland that she would not continue as Joona’s co-driver.
Hussi has kept her future plans under wraps. It seems significant news is on the way, as there wouldn’t be much reason to keep her next steps so secret otherwise.
“The rallies will continue,” Hussi said, revealing just a little.
