Pajari, along with his co-driver Marko Salminen, drove the Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 in the Alps, but the weather may have been too favourable. Their test day was mostly dry, with nearly the entire asphalt stretch free of snow or slush.
While there were some patches of water and potentially icy spots, the absence of snow and slush didn’t replicate the challenging and variable conditions typically seen in the Monte Carlo.
Drivers have a lot to test in just one day, particularly with the introduction of Hankook tyres, which will debut in the WRC at Monte Carlo, replacing Pirelli. Additionally, technical changes to the cars include the removal of the hybrid unit and a smaller restrictor.
Watch the video from Pajari’s test day below. If it doesn’t display on your device, you can view it via this link.
Hyundai’s WRC team also continued their preparations for Monte Carlo. World champion Thierry Neuville and Estonian driver Ott Tänak tested the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 earlier this week, while Frenchman Adrien Fourmaux took his turn on Friday.
Like Pajari, Fourmaux completed his test in relatively dry conditions, which are less typical for Monte Carlo.
Watch the video of Fourmaux’s test below. If it doesn’t display on your device, you can view it via this link.
The traditional Rally Monte Carlo takes place from 23–26 January. The service park will once again be based in the city of Gap at the foot of the Alps, while the rally’s start and finish will take place in Monaco.
