In the season opener at Monte Carlo, Pajari was still getting used to tarmac and the challenging conditions. His rally ultimately ended in retirement after he slid off an icy section and crashed off a bridge in his GR Yaris Rally1 on the final day.
Expectations were higher for Rally Sweden, where Pajari was competing in more familiar snowy conditions. However, he was unable to match the leaders’ pace, especially after an early puncture, and finished seventh overall.
Despite that, Pajari is not disappointed with how his season has started.
“I must say the start of the season has not been too bad. Both of the rallies were obviously really tricky ones. It’s always like at the beginning of the season, there are some very specific rallies, so it’s never going to be too easy. But actually, in both rallies, we did some quite nice stage times, and some of the days have actually been really fine,” Pajari reflected.
Both Pajari and Toyota’s management have emphasised that his focus is on gaining experience at this stage. He does not need to worry about manufacturer points, as he is competing in Toyota’s secondary team without the same level of pressure as the main lineup.
“I’ve seen lots of positives. Of course, the results haven’t been too good, but I’m not thinking about it too much at the moment. I think that’s also how we see it together with the team – not pushing too much for the results at this point. We have seen clear development and improvement in both rallies,” Pajari emphasised.
Next up, Pajari faces a completely new challenge, as the third round of the season takes place in Kenya. The iconic Safari Rally is only familiar to him from last year’s reconnaissance.
Since returning to the WRC calendar four years ago, the Safari Rally has reaffirmed its place as one of the toughest events of the season. Keeping the car in one piece on the rough stages is often the key to securing a strong result.
Pajari is well aware of the challenge ahead.
“Again, very different conditions compared to the first two rallies. The first proper summer rally of the season, so of course, it’s nice.”
“I know a little bit about how the roads look, but still, it’s going to be a huge challenge for sure. I think it’s one of the most challenging rallies of the season for everyone, but especially for me, being there for the first time. I really don’t know what to expect, at least result-wise. But of course, I’m there to do my best,” Pajari previewed.
Safari Rally Kenya takes place on 20–23 March.
