Toyota announces WRC plans

[Fast Eddie WRC]

More information from Tommi Mäkinen today on @TGR_WRC - this time via @MiiroKoivula

[Simmi]

More information from Tommi Mäkinen today on @TGR_WRC - this time via @MiiroKoivula

A big partner/title sponsor would be very cool for the team. Not enough of these companies in rallying.

[stefanvv]

Stefanvv, take a look at Lappi’s record this year. You’ll see that his only driving mistake was in Sweden (still he finished 3rd). In Italy he had a tech problem (suspension failure) and in Poland he hit the same stone that took Tanak’s victory away, finishing 3rd in WRC2. He dominated in Finland and in Germany. It’s a bit unfair to keep saying he’s still an error prone driver.

I'm aware of his record this year, and admit it is quite positive... but he is far from being a complete driver. For me 2 almost identical drivers in 1 team is risky, that's all. Either they can win a lot, or lose a lot if pursuit podiums next year.

[Simmi]

I'm aware of his record this year, and admit it is quite positive... but he is far from being a complete driver.

He's 25 years old with zero starts in a WRC car. How is he supposed to be a complete driver at this point in his career?

I think Lappi will be allowed to go and learn the rallies without pressure. And when he's comfortable the speed will come. Hanninen is Tommi's guy and I think he will be asked to play more of a team game at times. Complete the rallies, get information etc.

I'm just quiet surprised that Juho has not done any events this year, even at national R5 level to get back into the swing of competition, gel with a new co-driver etc.

[Grundo Farb]

The driver line-up smacks of the last two unattached singles in a bar looking at each other just before closing time saying "how about it?"

Hobson's choice is another description. Google that one...

[tommeke_B]

Am I the only one who doesn't understand why they would pick Lappi in stead of Suninen? IMO Suninen is performing better with far less experience than Lappi.

[liposh]

Lappi is much more complex driver with much more experience. He is fast on all surfaces. Suninen is young with great skills and perspective so his time will definitelly come.

[pantealex]

Am I the only one who doesn't understand why they would pick Lappi in stead of Suninen? IMO Suninen is performing better with far less experience than Lappi.

What IF: Tommi is only offering part year deal, not full season?
Suninen says NO, he wants full season, Lappi takes part year deal.

It´s possible that they don´t give any drivers name next Wednesday or just Juho who is free agent.

[Hartusvuori]

Am I the only one who doesn't understand why they would pick Lappi in stead of Suninen? IMO Suninen is performing better with far less experience than Lappi.

Maybe Suninen doesn't want to go with Tommi?

[MM WRC]

Suninen says NO, he wants full season, Lappi takes part year deal.

I have heard Lappi and Hänninen will drive the whole season and there could possibly be a third car with a part-season programme.