Esapekka Lappi will only be in the Hyundai cockpit at selected events in the 2024 WRC season: Why the Finn didn’t want a full-time program
Esapekka Lappi will cut back in the World Rally Championship (WRC): The Finn, who was still in the cockpit of the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid at all events this year, will drive a part-time program in the 2024 season and only take part in selected events – by his own choice!
“I asked a long time ago to do a part-time program if it was possible, and the reason is that with my personal life it’s quite a challenge to manage everything when I’m away all the time.”
“Last year we did a part-time program and I felt that the balance between my private and professional life was easier,” recalls the Finn, who moved from Toyota to Hyundai for the 2023 season to take part in the development of the i20N.
In Croatia, Portugal, Sardinia and Estonia, Lappi finished on the podium together with his co-driver Janne Ferm. In the second half of the season, however, he suffered three retirements in the last four races. With the surprising return of Ott Tänak and Hyundai driver Thierry Neuville, the South Koreans have two strong drivers for the 2024 WRC season.
Hyundai team boss Abiteboul: “A strong squad “
Nonetheless, Lappi will continue to develop the i20N to support Hyundai in the fight for the world championship. “I feel very comfortable in the team; we have built a fantastic bond over the past year and have shown that we have the package to be successful,” said a delighted Lappi.
“I still have the will to develop further and be successful in rallying, and I would love to win with this team,” says the Finn. “Next year will certainly be different and interesting in many ways, which will motivate me to be a team player and strive for personal success in order to achieve a stronger 2024 season. “
It is still unclear who Lappi will share the third car with. “We are pleased to announce the next piece of the puzzle for 2024: Esapekka and Janne will remain in our team for the coming season,” confirmed Hyundai team boss Cyril Abiteboul.
“Their role will be to support Thierry and Ott in the championship and focus on the development of the car – something Esapekka has been particularly good at this year,” says Abiteboul. “We are convinced that this is a strong squad that can help us achieve our goals and take more victories.”
“We are still finalizing the overall picture for the coming season and will announce our plans in due course, but for now we are delighted to have such a strong line-up at the front of our WRC challengers. “
