Sami Pajari replaces Takamoto Katsuta in Chile and Central European rallies

Sami Pajari has been selected by Toyota to replace Takamoto Katsuta in the Chile and Central European rallies. This decision gives the young Finnish driver the opportunity to gain more experience in the Rally1 category of the World Rally Championship. While Katsuta takes a short break before the final races of the year, Pajari will compete in his place.

Pajari's Progress in Rally1 and WRC2

Pajari, along with his co-driver Enni Mälkönen, made his first appearance in a Yaris Rally1 during the Rally Finland. On that occasion, they achieved a stage win and finished fourth overall. After Finland, his WRC2 campaign continued successfully, with a third victory of the season at the Acropolis Rally, where he demonstrated great adaptability to the challenging conditions.

Pajari Replaces Katsuta During His Break

Takamoto Katsuta has had a demanding season, and Toyota has decided to give him a short break for the Chile and Central European rounds. The team expects Katsuta to return strong for the final events of the year, especially for Rally Japan, his home event. In the meantime, Pajari takes on the challenge of driving the Yaris Rally1 in Chile and Central Europe.

Challenge in Chile and Central Europe

The Rally Chile, scheduled from September 26 to 29, features a gravel route, ideal for Pajari to continue developing in a high-speed environment. Later, the Central European Rally, taking place from October 17 to 20, will mark Pajari's first Rally1 appearance on asphalt. This round, crossing Germany, Czech Republic, and Austria, will be a key test due to the unpredictable road conditions.