Akio Toyoda welcomed Kalle Rovanperä to Japan next week.
Akio Toyoda thanked the entire rally team. Juuso Taipale
CEO of Toyota With Akio Toyoda there was reason to smile on Sunday. Toyoda congratulated the people of the rally team on the World Rally Championship.
The title was secured in the rally in Chile, which ended on Sunday. The success has not only been for the drivers holding the first place Kalle Rovanperän in reserve.
Still, the design of the letter was a bit peculiar, because without the dominance of the Finn, Toyota’s points haul would be considerably weaker.
– This season Elfyn Evans has been a significant factor in securing the manufacturers’ WC title. He has placed on the podium six times. Thank you for the third place in the World Rally Championship in Chile – it secured us the brand championship, Toyoda began his letter.
– The three rally victories of Rovanperä and Jonne Halttunen have of course helped us a lot. I hope that Kalle and Elfyn drive the last two rallies with the gas at the bottom, he added.
Toyoda reminded that the manufacturers’ championship was now secured one race earlier than in the previous season. In his opinion, it is an indication that the team has become even stronger.
– I also want to send my heartfelt thanks to Jari-Matti Latvala for the work he has done to ensure the success of the stable. We already won the championship last season, when he was in his first year as team manager.
– I’m looking forward to our meeting in Japan, Toyoda concluded and referred to the season-ending World Cup competition.
There was one addition at the end of the letter. Rovanperä turned 23 on Sunday.
– PS Happy birthday, Kalle. We drifting fans look forward to seeing you next week in Okayama!
Jari-Matti Latvala once again achieved the brand championship as team manager. Juuso Taipale