Esapekka Lappi closed the curtain on his racing career with a dramatic victory at the fifth round of the Finnish Rally Championship. Despite only needing a safe finish, he took home the winner's trophy after Estonia's Patrick Enok crashed out of the lead on the penultimate stage. It was a fitting end for a driver who has long been a familiar face in the WRC.
Lappi, known for his speed on fast surfaces, had already claimed five wins from seven Finnish Rally Championship rounds. However, his final race was far from smooth. On the final stage, his windscreen wipers failed completely in heavy rain and muddy conditions. Together with co-driver Enni Malkonen, he brought the car safely to the finish.
"It feels good now, even though it's raining. It was certainly a memorable end to my career, with the wipers stopping at the beginning of the final stage and the rain refusing to let up. What a way to finish," Lappi told RallyJournal.
"Perhaps I was able to enjoy the final couple of kilometres," he added with a smile.
For the past few seasons, Lappi has competed part-time in the WRC to spend more time with his family. Now, he will have even more free time. "Next up is the three-and-a-half-hour drive home. I'll probably have all sorts of things to think about along the way. There have been some great moments and some darker ones too," he reflected.
"From now on, I intend to do all the things I haven't been able to do over the years."
Lappi's retirement marks the end of an era for a driver who was once hailed as Finland's next big hope in the WRC. His debut in the top class in 2017 with Toyota immediately yielded a victory at Rally Finland, and he has been a regular podium contender since. Though he never consistently challenged for the title, his speed on fast gravel was undeniable.
This season, Lappi focused on national events to maintain his racing rhythm while enjoying family time. His win at the Finnish Rally Championship proves his class is still above average. But he chose to end it all with his head held high.
For rally fans, Lappi's departure leaves a gap that will be hard to fill. His calm yet competitive character, and his ability in difficult conditions, made him a always anticipated presence. Now, he will enjoy his new life, perhaps with more time at home and hobbies he has long neglected.
Baca Juga
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