The 2024 Rally Chile marked an emotional end to a storied career as Janne Ferm, the highly respected co-driver, announced his retirement from the World Rally Championship (WRC) on the final day of the event. After 15 seasons and 90 WRC events together, Ferm’s journey with long-time driver Esapekka Lappi has come to a close.
Ferm, known for his infectious laughter and cheerful spirit, was introspective at the finish of Rally Chile, where their final outing ended in disappointment due to a did-not-finish (DNF) after Lappi spun and damaged the front end of their Hyundai i20 N Rally1 on the penultimate stage. Despite the result, Ferm reflected on his illustrious career with gratitude.
“I was thinking that I’d just quit, and it’s not that big of a deal,” Ferm said, his voice trailing off as he took in the moment. “It has been a journey, with ups and downs. Of course, you can mention those two wins [Finland and Sweden], but it’s more than that. It’s about the families involved, the camaraderie, and the man Esapekka is.”
Ferm and Lappi first teamed up 15 years ago, and the pair quickly rose to the top of the rallying world, winning the WRC2 title in 2016 with Škoda and claiming two WRC victories, including a stunning win at their home event, Rally Finland, in 2017. Their final triumph came earlier this season at Rally Sweden, a fitting capstone to their professional partnership.
Esapekka Lappi, deeply moved, paid tribute to his co-driver and close friend, hinting that their time together isn’t over just yet. “We’ve had 15 seasons together,” Lappi said. “We’ve climbed the hill to become professionals, and while this journey ends, I’m sure we’ll still sit together in a rally car for fun one day. But professionally, this chapter is closing.”
Lappi also highlighted Ferm’s unforgettable presence in the paddock. “He’s the loudest laugher in the pit. You always knew where Janne was because of his laugh, even if you couldn’t see him. We’ll all miss his jokes and sense of humor.”
Although Ferm is stepping away from the WRC, he’s not hanging up his helmet entirely. He’ll be back in action next month at RallyLegend in San Marino, where he will co-drive a Citroën C3 WRC with Heikki Kovalainen.
As for his future beyond rallying, Ferm admits he has no firm plans. “Everybody’s asking me what’s next, but honestly, I don’t have a plan B or C. I just quit this and see what comes up.”
Janne Ferm’s contribution to rallying, alongside Esapekka Lappi, will forever be etched in the sport’s history. From their humble beginnings at the 2010 Arctic Lapland Rally to competing in 147 events globally, their partnership stands as one of the most enduring and successful in WRC history.
