Enni Malkonen closed her chapter with Esapekka Lappi on a high note, winning in Porvoo, but the co-driver immediately signaled that her rally career is far from over. This week, Lappi announced his retirement from professional rallying, though he left the door open for occasional appearances. For Malkonen, it marks the end of a two-year journey that yielded not only titles but also invaluable experience in the Rally1 class.
Their partnership began at the start of last season, and this year they tackled five WRC events together. The culmination came in Porvoo, where they secured their fifth win of the season and sealed a second consecutive world title. For Malkonen, the result was a relief after battling difficult weather and a demanding rally. "I feel quite relieved after this event because the weather was so difficult and the rally was by no means easy. But you have to make it to the finish, and that is where the results are decided," she told RallyJournal.com with a smile.
Now, Malkonen is set to begin working with a new driver. At 36, she brings a wealth of experience, and she was full of praise for Lappi. "First of all, I am incredibly grateful for all the adventures I have experienced with Esapekka, and especially for this WRC season. It has been an absolutely amazing two years," she enthused.
Lappi’s decision to step away may have surprised many, but he hasn’t ruled out selected rallies in the future. Meanwhile, Malkonen remains focused on what’s next. She admitted she cannot yet reveal her new driver but offered a tantalizing hint. "I cannot really say anything yet, but we will all find out what is going to happen. There will certainly be good things, at least," she added.
The past two years alongside Lappi have molded Malkonen into a seasoned co-driver. She has learned not only about speed but also about mental resilience under championship pressure. Now, she is ready to carry those lessons into a new chapter. Fans are eager to see who her next partner will be and whether a similar chemistry can be forged.
Next season, Malkonen’s presence in the rally world will be eagerly anticipated. With two world titles under her belt, she is no longer a figure to be overlooked. The positive signal she gave is a clear indication that her rally story is far from finished. We just have to wait for the official announcement, which should come soon.
Baca Juga
Esapekka Lappi pensiun setelah menang dramatis di Rally Finlandia. Simak cerita lengkap dan momen haru penutup kariernya di sini.
Esapekka Lappi menutup karier dengan kemenangan dramatis di Finnish Rally Championship Porvoo. Simak hasil lengkap dan reaksi para pembalap.
Teemu Suninen akan bergabung sebagai test driver Project Rally One pada Oktober. Tim Belgia itu menjadikannya kandidat utama kursi WRC 2027.
Lanjutkan dengan Google
Diskusi & Komentar (0)
Mari Bergabung dalam Diskusi!
Masuk dengan mudah untuk mulai memberikan komentar, membalas, dan berinteraksi dengan pembaca lainnya.
Komentar Terbaru
Belum ada komentar. Jadilah yang pertama!