Lappi eyes strategic triumph at Safari Rally following Swedish victory

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MOTORSPORTS Lappi eyes strategic triumph at Safari Rally following Swedish victory

Festus Chuma 18:38 - 08.03.2024

Esapekka Lappi is gearing up for Safari Rally Kenya with strategic caution, aiming to support Hyundai Motorsport's broader goals after Swedish win.

Hyundai Motorsport star Esapekka Lappi is setting his sights on the upcoming Safari Rally Kenya, scheduled for March 28-31, with a balanced mix of ambition and caution. 

Fresh off a stunning victory at Rally Sweden last month, his second career win in the FIA World Rally Championship, Lappi is determined to carry forward his momentum, yet not at the expense of the team's broader objectives.

Lappi's triumph in Umea marked a significant milestone, coming more than six years after his first WRC win in Finland in 2017. 

However, the Finnish driver is clear that this recent success does not alter his approach to the challenges that lie ahead in Naivasha. 

As a part-time driver for Hyundai this season, his primary role is to support championship leader Thierry Neuville and 2019 world champion Ott Tänak.

"I will try to do the best I can in the next rally. We will see how it develops there. The targets will be a bit flexible, like always through the weekend, so we need to adjust to them as we go," he said as per WRC.com.

Lappi's previous outing at the Safari Rally was fraught with challenges, as his Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid faced numerous propshaft issues.

Nevertheless, the experience garnered from last year's event, coupled with an improved understanding of the demanding African terrain, has bolstered Lappi's confidence. 

"At least I go there knowing what the roads are like and what I can expect," he reflected. "I think we will be better prepared and the car should be more reliable – last year it was an incredible experience with amazing views and people."

Hyundai Motorsport aims for a trouble-free run at this year's Safari Rally, seeking to break Toyota Gazoo Racing's dominance in the African event since its WRC return in 2021.

 The 2024 edition, aligning with the traditional Easter holiday weekend, introduces additional variables as it coincides with the rainy season, promising a sterner test for the drivers.

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