Hänninen Clinches Fine Fourth for Toyota Gazoo Racing in Spain
Juho Hänninen came through a punishing Rally de España to claim a fourth place finish for Toyota Gazoo Racing in the 11th round of the 2017 FIA World Rally Championship.
The Finn’s success came after both his team-mates were forced into retirement on the mixed-surface event. The Yaris WRC of Jari-Matti Latvala was sidelined after a heavy impact on Friday damaged the car’s lubrication system, while Esapekka Lappi dropped out from sixth place on the final day following a collision with a barrier.
“Yesterday and today have been two of the most enjoyable days of rallying I’ve ever had,” said Hänninen, who was competing in Spain for the first time in six years. “On asphalt we have had a really, really good car. I have felt confident with it and haven’t had to take any big risks.”
His final day performance included two top-three stage times and a fifth place in the Power Stage to net an extra championship point.
The next stop in the calendar will be the Dayinsure Wales Rally GB, which Toyota is supporting as the event’s Official Car Partner. Taking place from 26 to 29 October, the rally will be contested in the Welsh forests, renowned for their slippery, muddy surfaces and adverse weather conditions.
Toyota is also the title sponsor of the Toyota RallyFest at Cholmondley Castle on 28 October. This family-focused event will feature a speed test and a celebration of Toyota’s fine rallying heritage with a display of great competition cars from the past.
2017 FIA World Rally Championship for drivers after round 11:
1 Sebastien Ogier 198
2 Ott Tanak 161
3 Thierry Neuville 160
4 Jari-Matti Latvala 123
5 Dani Sordo 94
6 Elfyn Evans 93
7 Juho Hänninen 71
8 Craig Breen 64
9 Kris Meeke 60
10 Hayden Paddon 55
11 Esapekka Lappi 49
2017 FIA World Rally Championship for manufacturers after round 11:
1 M-Sport World Rally Team 358
2 Hyundai Motorsport 275
3 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing WRT 225
4 Citroen Total Abu Dhabi World Rally Team 198
