This season, Suninen participated in five WRC events with Hyundai’s Rally2 equipment. The results, however, were slim, as the Finnish driver didn’t manage to score points in the WRC2 class even once.
The primary issues lay with Hyundai’s Rally2 car, which placed both Suninen and his teammate Emil Lindholm at a disadvantage. Technical issues were constant, and the car wasn’t competitive against drivers with Skoda, Toyota, and Citroën vehicles.
Throughout this season, it’s increasingly seemed that Hyundai is a dead end for Suninen’s career. There’s no open slot for the Finn in the main class, and the Rally2 car doesn’t allow him to showcase his talent.
Earlier this month, hints emerged that Suninen might switch to a new car for next season. Suninen, in fact, tested Toyota’s Rally2 car in France.
Read more: What does this mean? Teemu Suninen tested a Toyota
At that time, RallyJournal.com reported that Suninen’s test could mean he might drive the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 next year in the WRC2 class. Toyota introduced its Rally2 car to the market earlier this year, and it has proven competitive on the WRC’s special stages.
Now, rumours surrounding Suninen have gained more traction. The Dirtfish website also speculates that Suninen could compete in a full WRC2 season with Toyota next year.
Suninen himself has kept his plans quiet. RallyJournal.com attempted to reach him after his Toyota test, but the Finnish driver did not wish to comment on the test or any other matters.
In cases like these, remaining silent can suggest that something is being arranged behind the scenes. A move to Toyota’s Rally2 car would be a near jackpot for Suninen, giving him the chance to prove his abilities properly.
Toyota doesn’t have an official WRC2 team, but the Finnish team Printsport has fielded Sami Pajari in a Toyota Rally2 car this season. Toyota has been closely involved in this project.
Additionally, Rautio Motorsport’s Roope Korhonen competed in WRC rallies with Toyota this year. Rautio is also one of Suninen’s partners, so that could be another potential option for him.
The season-ending Rally Japan takes place in late November. After that, clarity on Suninen’s plans for next season is expected.