Esapekka Lappi concluded his part-time campaign with Hyundai in the World Rally Championship (WRC) 2025 with mixed emotions. The Finnish driver ended his stint in the team's third car after Rally Chile, and took to social media to issue an apology.
Lappi shared driving duties with Hayden Paddon and Dani Sordo this season. However, his outing in Chile didn't go to plan. Without a pre-event test, he struggled to find the ideal setup for his i20 N Rally1, ultimately finishing sixth, well off the pace of the leaders.
“I’m really thankful for what the team has done. It was our last rally, so I’m really thankful to everyone involved,” Lappi said in his Instagram story, as quoted by RallyJournal.
Nevertheless, Lappi didn't hide his disappointment. “Unfortunately, I couldn’t deliver what I hoped for and what the team was hoping for. So I’m really sorry for that,” he added.
On the positive side, he brought the car to the finish without any issues. “We brought the car to the finish without any problems, so that’s at least positive. And that’s about it, basically,” he said with a chuckle.
Throughout 2025, Lappi contested five WRC rounds with Hyundai. His best result was fourth at Safari Rally Kenya. He also competed in the Finnish Rally Championship, clinching the title a month ago. Next week, he will contest the season-ending round in Porvoo.
It remains uncertain whether Lappi will continue his rally career beyond this season. One thing is clear: his journey with Hyundai has ended, and he closed it with sportsmanship and genuine gratitude.
Read Also
Young driver Carlberg speaks out after horrific Junior WRC crash. He and co-driver survived, though they were airlifted to hospital.
Esapekka Lappi admits he's glad Rally Chile is over after finishing sixth. Lack of testing and confidence were key factors in his struggle with Hyundai.
Hayden Paddon mentors Spencer Bourne, son of rally legend Possum Bourne, at Ashley Forest Rallysprint and prepares for Otago Rally 2027.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!