The recent Rally Chile Bio Bío marked the bittersweet end of Janne Ferm’s illustrious career in the FIA World Rally Championship, as he called time on a 90-rally journey that spanned 15 years, 2 victories, 15 podiums, and 77 stage wins. Ferm, alongside long-time partner and fellow Finn Esapekka Lappi, signed off on a career that saw them rise through the ranks of rallying from humble beginnings to the world stage.
Their journey together began in the national rallies of Finland, where they cut their teeth in a modest Honda Civic Type-R. That experience culminated in their breakthrough moment when the pair claimed the 2016 WRC2 title with Škoda Motorsport. The following year, they stepped up to the big leagues with Toyota Gazoo Racing, joining for an eight-round campaign in 2017. Four rallies in, they delivered a career-defining moment with a maiden victory at Rally Finland, a highlight that cemented their status as serious contenders in the sport.
Despite this early success, it would take another six long years before they tasted victory again, with a triumphant return to the top step of the podium at Rally Sweden earlier this year. Now, after years of relentless travel, hard-fought battles, and shared triumphs, Ferm is ready to focus on family life and leave the WRC behind.
Reflecting on his decision, Ferm admitted to WRC.com that retirement had been on his mind since last year. When Lappi proposed a part-time season for 2024, Ferm agreed but ultimately felt it was time to step away for good.
“I love the sport and I love the people around it, but there is a lot of travelling that you are doing,” Ferm said. “It felt good that we were doing a part-time season, and this year I’ve had the chance to spectate rallies, which has been amazing. But now, I have a family, so I want to spend more time with them.”
Ferm fondly recounted his first meeting with Lappi and the bond they shared over the years. “After that, we have been in a marriage for 15 years. Okay, the marriage is not ending, we are just, like they say, living under separate departments after this.”
While Ferm’s departure marks the end of an era, it also casts uncertainty over Lappi’s future in the WRC. With Hyundai reportedly re-evaluating its strategy for 2024, particularly regarding the shared third car, questions remain over whether Lappi will continue or if this is the end of the road for the Finn as well.
If Lappi is to carry on without his long-time co-driver, it will mark a significant change for the driver who has achieved so much alongside Ferm. The rally world now watches closely to see what path Lappi will choose as Hyundai reshuffles its strategy for next season.
