The Toyota Gazoo Racing young driver development program has successfully expanded its horizons beyond Japan, bringing in high-rated Estonian talent Jaspar Vaher. After a standout performance in his debut Rally2 season, the 21-year-old is now under the mentorship of rally icon Mikko Hirvonen, who serves as a key coach within the initiative.
Throughout this season, Vaher displayed immense raw pace, leading the ERC rally in Sweden and clinching a victory at the Finnish Rally Championship in Jyvaskyla. Notably, he outperformed seasoned driver Esapekka Lappi on pure speed. However, Hirvonen believes that while the pace is undeniable, the focus must now shift toward maturity and consistency.
"There is still pace in reserve, but at this stage, we would almost be happier if he drove a little slower and became more consistent at the same time," Hirvonen remarked with a laugh to RallyJournal. He emphasized that the real challenge for young drivers lies in maintaining composure over the entire duration of a multi-day rally weekend, rather than just chasing fastest sector times.
Hirvonen has set a clear trajectory for next season: finding a comfortable pace that keeps Vaher consistently within the top six. He explains that once this foundation of consistency is mastered, the ability to increase speed will follow naturally. The program is committed to ensuring that Vaher learns from a variety of rallies and complex competitive situations.
Heading into the next season, Vaher will continue behind the wheel of the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2. He will be joined by co-driver Janni Hussi, who previously partnered with Teemu Suninen. With clear goals set and strong institutional backing, Hirvonen remains fully confident in the potential of his young charge to reach the top level of the sport.
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