Pressure may be “for tires,” as former England soccer legend Alan Shearer quipped, but for Elfyn Evans, it’s been an undeniable burden. In 2024, the weight of Toyota’s World Rally Championship (WRC) hopes fell squarely on his shoulders—a situation Toyota boss Jari-Matti Latvala now admits was far from ideal.
With hindsight, Latvala concedes the Welsh driver was set up for failure, left to face Hyundai’s formidable lineup of Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak without adequate support. But in 2025, Toyota’s revamped lineup promises to change everything for Evans.
The Lone Wolf of 2024
Evans was thrust into a solo leadership role last season when Kalle Rovanperä, Toyota’s young phenom and two-time world champion, opted for a part-time schedule. With Takamoto Katsuta yet to claim his first rally victory, Evans was Toyota’s only realistic title contender.
“When he knows it’s only on his shoulders, the pressure is too much for him,” Latvala reflected. “He doesn’t make mistakes, but when you feel you can’t afford to, you end up sacrificing speed.”
Despite a commendable effort, Evans struggled to carry the team against Hyundai’s full-time threats. Toyota even had to call on Sébastien Ogier to plug the gaps mid-season.
The Cavalry Arrives in 2025
This year, Toyota is pulling out all the stops. Rovanperä is back full-time, joined by rising star Sami Pajari, alongside Evans and Katsuta, for a 14-round program. For Latvala, this lineup isn’t just about spreading the load—it’s about creating a dynamic that could elevate Evans to new heights.
“If there’s another driver fighting for the championship, it’s good for Elfyn,” Latvala said. “I think this will boost his performance and bring him back into the fight.”
Rovanperä: Threat or Opportunity?
The return of Rovanperä, just 24 years old but already a two-time champion, is undoubtedly a coup for Toyota. His speed and consistency are expected to set the benchmark. But far from intimidating Evans, Rovanperä’s presence might relieve the pressure, allowing Evans to drive with more freedom.
Latvala is optimistic that a more balanced team dynamic will help Evans rediscover the form that made him a championship contender in years past. “He wants to deliver for the team, but he needs to know it’s not all on him,” Latvala added. “With that support, I believe his speed will rise this year.”
Evans’ Self-Imposed Pressure
Regardless of team expectations, Evans is known for holding himself to high standards. While Latvala’s theory may ease external pressure, Evans has acknowledged he’ll still be his own toughest critic.
Toyota’s Grand Experiment
Toyota’s decision to field a four-driver lineup reflects a commitment to reclaiming WRC dominance. The team’s depth gives it multiple avenues to secure victories and a strong shot at both the drivers’ and manufacturers’ championships. More importantly, it allows drivers like Evans to thrive without bearing the entire burden.
A Make-or-Break Season
For Evans, 2025 could be a turning point. With Rovanperä’s return and Toyota’s bolstered lineup, the stage is set for him to deliver his best. Whether he rises to the challenge or falters under the lingering pressure will determine not only his season but perhaps his long-term legacy in the WRC.
As Latvala put it, “This year, Elfyn can be much stronger. The speed will raise up.” Fans will be watching closely to see if Latvala’s prediction comes true—or if the pressure, even shared, remains too much to bear.
