Rally legend and four-time World Rally Champion Juha Kankkunen is set to make a triumphant return to the WRC service park in 2025, joining Toyota Gazoo Racing as deputy team principal. Kankkunen will share responsibilities with current team principal Jari-Matti Latvala, stepping in when Latvala focuses on his commitments in the European Historic Rally Championship.
A Legend Back in Action
Kankkunen, a towering figure in rally history, won his final world title with Toyota in 1993, piloting the iconic Celica Turbo 4WD. Over the years, he has remained close to the Japanese manufacturer, serving as an ambassador and participating in demonstration runs. His return to a leadership role underscores Toyota’s commitment to blending modern strategy with the wisdom of rallying’s golden era.
Kankkunen: “Toyota gave me my first opportunity in the world championship, and it’s a great pleasure to come back. I was planning to retire, but when they asked me to do this job, I couldn’t say no. If I’m good enough, I’m ready to help.”
Latvala’s Endorsement
Latvala, who has helmed Toyota’s WRC efforts since 2023, will manage his dual role as team principal and competitor in the European Historic Rally Championship. When Latvala steps away to drive his Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD, Kankkunen will assume full team responsibilities.
Latvala: “Juha brings immense experience and a strong connection with the drivers. We’ve already been working closely, and his insights from his era can help us refine our approach in the modern WRC. This is a fantastic addition for the team.”
Latvala also highlighted Kankkunen’s natural rapport with the team, particularly the drivers, and praised his enthusiasm for understanding the challenges of modern rallying while offering wisdom from his illustrious career.
First Test as Boss: Safari Rally Kenya
Kankkunen’s first stint as team principal will likely be at the Safari Rally Kenya, a fitting debut considering its legacy as one of the WRC’s most demanding events—a stage where Kankkunen himself once excelled. His leadership is expected to bring a unique perspective to Toyota’s operations, blending his hands-on understanding of driver needs with strategic oversight.
A Blend of Modern and Historic Expertise
Toyota Gazoo Racing’s 2025 season is shaping up to be a formidable campaign, with Kankkunen’s appointment coinciding with an expanded driver lineup that includes WRC2 champion Sami Pajari and returning stars Kalle Rovanperä, Elfyn Evans, and Takamoto Katsuta. The addition of Sébastien Ogier for select events further cements Toyota’s position as a team blending youth, experience, and legendary leadership.
Kankkunen on Toyota’s Future: “I’ve been working with the team for two years now, and I’m excited to contribute more. The sport has evolved, but there are lessons from my time that still hold value. It’s an honor to help Toyota chase even greater success.”
What’s Next for Toyota?
With Kankkunen joining Latvala at the helm, Toyota is doubling down on its commitment to excellence in the WRC. As the 2025 season approaches, fans can expect the team to draw upon the combined expertise of these two rallying legends to defend its manufacturers’ championship and chase additional driver titles.
Toyota’s press conference in Nagoya not only unveiled its leadership reshuffle but also reinforced its ambitions: blending the best of rally’s past with a forward-looking strategy for domination in 2025 and beyond.
