In the Ruuhimäki special stage, Toyota’s Takamoto Katsuta, who was fourth at that point in the rally, made a mistake and broke the right rear wheel suspension of his car.
The rear wheel folded under the car and Katsuta’s dream of a good result in his “home rally” vanished into thin air. Katsuta might be able to continue the competition tomorrow, Saturday, but it was very little consolation for the Japanese driver.
“Practically throughout the entire morning loop, the conditions were very challenging and everyone made mistakes,” Katsuta commented.
“But then I made a mistake on the last stage of the morning. I braked for that corner and maybe assumed there would be more grip. But when I went into the corner, the grip disappeared immediately and I hit a tree on the outside and the wheel folded under,” Katsuta recounted.
Katsuta was, of course, annoyed. The Japanese driver’s season has been very challenging so far.
“It was a really simple mistake and, of course, really frustrating. Now I just need to get my confidence back, as the rally continues for another two days. I especially want to get some points on Sunday. That would be very important for me,” Katsuta said.
Katsuta’s race will likely continue on Saturday.
“Hope so,” he said.
