After a 2,394 day wait, Esapekka Lappi secured a long-awaited victory at Rally Sweden, beating Toyota’s Elfyn Evans by 29.6 seconds. This win marked his first triumph since the 2017 Rally Finland, a remarkable achievement considering the interval between victories. Lappi, who competed in the first round of a partial programme this year, capitalized on a favorable road position to seize a 3.2s rally lead on Friday night. Additionally, he benefited from an early mishap that saw Kalle Rovanpera crash out on stage four, clearing the path for Lappi to shine.
Reflecting on his triumph, Lappi expressed his elation, stating, “It feels bloody good. I don’t know how to explain it.” The Finnish driver acknowledged the significance of this victory, highlighting the relief of finally securing a win after a prolonged period without one. He admitted to losing belief in his ability to clinch another victory, particularly following near misses in previous seasons. However, his perseverance and dedication ultimately paid off as he crossed the finish line in triumph.
Lappi recounted one of his closest opportunities to end his win drought, recalling a moment in Sardinia where he was leading before being eclipsed by his teammate Thierry Neuville. Despite the disappointment of missing out on victory, Lappi viewed his triumph in Rally Sweden as a redemptive moment that helped mitigate the impact of past near misses. This win symbolized a turning point in his career, reaffirming his skills and determination as a top-tier rally driver.
Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul commended Lappi on his victory, emphasizing the impact it will have on the driver’s confidence and morale. Abiteboul lauded Lappi’s honesty and transparency, noting his desire for straightforward battles on the rally track. He believed that Lappi’s win in Rally Sweden will serve as a springboard for future successes, instilling a newfound sense of belief and determination in the driver. This victory not only showcased Lappi’s capabilities but also underscored Hyundai’s faith in his abilities as a competitive force in the WRC.
Esapekka Lappi’s triumph in Rally Sweden marked a significant milestone in his rally career, ending a prolonged drought and reinvigorating his confidence as a top-tier driver. This victory was a testament to Lappi’s resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to success in the world of rally racing. As he prepares to take on new challenges in upcoming races, Lappi’s win in Rally Sweden will undoubtedly serve as a source of motivation and inspiration for future endeavors.
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