Katsuta delivered perhaps the best performance of his WRC career less than a month ago in Sweden. The Japanese driver seriously challenged his teammate Elfyn Evans for victory but ultimately had to settle for second place.
Katsuta is still chasing his first WRC victory, which is why his stellar performance in Sweden left him with mixed emotions.
“Sweden was quite nice for us – quite good points for the team and myself. That was kind of good to show the speed and, at the same time, bring back the car with a good result,” Katsuta reflects.
“So, of course, at the end, I had a bit of a mixed feeling because I wanted to win, but at the same time, I wanted to do a good job for the team. So it was a bit compromised. But definitely, that was a good start to the season.”
Katsuta has another chance to fight for victory next week when the third round of the season takes place in Kenya.
The Safari Rally Kenya has been particularly favourable for Toyota and also for Katsuta in recent years. The Japanese driver achieved his first-ever WRC podium in Kenya in 2021, finishing second when the iconic event returned to the championship.
Katsuta has secured six podium finishes in the WRC, three of which have come in Kenya. Last year, he once again finished second in the demanding rally.
“It’s been quite a strong rally for the team every year, and the team has prepared the car very well. Our car’s reliability is always one of our strengths, so this works very well in Kenya,” Katsuta says.
“This year, Safari is a bit more challenging in terms of distance, and also, the stages are a bit newer. So, on the driver’s side – my side – I need to prepare well for the pacenotes and also for the driving stuff.”
According to Katsuta, another key factor will be getting fully accustomed to Hankook’s new gravel tyres and the updated Rally1 car during the event.
“That’s the most important thing on my side. But I’m still quite confident that the team is preparing very well and working very hard. So I’m very much looking forward to going to Kenya.”
The Safari Rally Kenya takes place from 20–23 March.
