The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team is heading to Rally Chile for the 11th round of the 2024 FIA World Rally Championship from September 26-29. After a tough performance at Acropolis Rally Greece earlier in the month, the team is determined to bounce back and achieve a strong result on the South American stage as it continues its fight for the championship title.
The team brings a powerful lineup to Chile, with drivers Kalle Rovanperä, Elfyn Evans, and Sébastien Ogier all competing for manufacturers’ points. Both Rovanperä and Ogier have secured three wins each this year, although they missed opportunities to add more victories in their recent outings in Finland and Greece. Evans, too, is looking to regain form after a series of challenging events.
Rising star Sami Pajari will make his second appearance in the GR YARIS Rally1 HYBRID following an impressive debut in Finland, where he finished fourth overall and claimed his first stage win. The team aims to develop Pajari’s experience on Chile’s diverse gravel roads, with hopes for another strong performance.
Rally Chile, which returned to the WRC calendar in 2023, features a mix of fast and technical gravel roads in the Biobío region near Concepción. After a shakedown and ceremonial start on Thursday, the rally will feature two days of competitive stages across the Biobío River, culminating with a final set of stages on Sunday.
Team Principal Jari-Matti Latvala expressed confidence in the driver lineup and highlighted the importance of managing tire wear in dry conditions. Both Rovanperä and Evans are optimistic about their chances, with Ogier also looking forward to returning to Chile after missing last year’s event.
