WRC, Sportrik Media - Marko Salminen praised his special working relationship with Sami Pajari after the pair secured their first top-category World Rally Championship victory at Rally Estonia 2026.
The result represented a historic achievement for both Pajari and Salminen. Pajari claimed the first WRC victory of his career, while Salminen earned his maiden win as a co-driver in the championship’s highest class after a long career in rallying.
Salminen began his co-driving career in Finland during the early 2000s. In addition to working with Pajari, he has partnered Juha Salo, Takamoto Katsuta and Teemu Suninen across several World Rally Championship programmes.
Pajari and Salminen dominated the Estonia weekend, although tension remained before the final special stage. Pajari reduced his pace during the closing test and safely guided the car to the finish.
“The overwhelming feeling at the finish was relief because this is something we have been chasing and waiting for. It had felt like it was coming over the last few rallies. It was a really happy moment inside the car,” Salminen said.
Salminen believes one of the partnership’s main strengths is the natural communication between them. The pair do not always require lengthy discussions because both already understand their responsibilities and the plans agreed before each stage.
“It is so easy to work with Sami and simply be around him. We have a special connection and do not even need to talk because we know what needs to be done. Even set-up changes on the road sections happen automatically. The chemistry between us is incredible,” he added.
Salminen also described Pajari as a composed and dependable driver, meaning he never feels nervous in the co-driver’s seat. Even before the rally began, he had recognised Pajari’s confidence and approach as signs that victory in Estonia was possible.
Salminen did not plan any extravagant celebrations after the breakthrough result. He intended to travel to Tallinn and consider a team dinner to mark an important victory in their WRC careers.
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