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Lappi thought drought-ending Sweden WRC win would never come
Hyundai driver Esapekka Lappi secured a first win since his 2017 Rally Finland victory by defeating Toyota’s Elfyn Evans in Sweden, with a lead of 29.6 seconds over 18 snow stages. Lappi’s win ended a 2,394 day gap from his last top-tier WRC podium victory, marking a significant achievement in his rally career. Taking advantage of a favorable road position, Lappi grabbed a 3.2s lead on Friday night and successfully fended off challenges from competitors like Takamoto Katsuta to clinch the long-awaited victory. Lappi expressed his elation at the win, emphasizing the relief and joy he felt after crossing the finish line. This triumph is expected to boost Lappi’s confidence and morale for future rallies, with Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul noting the positive impact it will have on the whole team. The Finnish driver is set to continue driving for Hyundai at the upcoming WRC round in Kenya from 28-31 March.
