Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team (TGR-WRT) has officially announced its dynamic roster of drivers for the 2025 FIA World Rally Championship, blending young talent with proven champions as the team sets its sights on defending its fourth consecutive manufacturers’ title and chasing more drivers’ and co-drivers’ crowns.
After a dominant 2024 season with eight wins from 13 rallies, TGR-WRT is gearing up to field an expanded squad, boasting four to five GR Yaris Rally1 cars at each event in 2025. With a focus on nurturing the next generation and reinforcing its championship pedigree, Toyota’s strategy positions them as the team to beat.
Sami Pajari’s Big Leap to Full-Time Rally1
Sami Pajari, the 22-year-old Finnish prodigy, headlines Toyota’s 2025 lineup as he steps into his first full-time Rally1 campaign. Pajari’s meteoric rise includes clinching the 2024 WRC2 Drivers’ Championship behind the wheel of the GR Yaris Rally2 and impressing during his maiden Rally1 outings in Finland, Chile, and Central Europe.
Pajari’s promotion underscores TGR-WRT’s commitment to developing emerging talent and creating a pipeline from Rally2 to the pinnacle of rallying. Pajari expressed his excitement:
“I’m thrilled to join the team full-time and ready to give everything for the 2025 season. I’ve learned a lot this year, and I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”
Rovanperä Returns to Full-Time Action
Kalle Rovanperä and co-driver Jonne Halttunen, two-time world champions, are back for a full season after a stellar 2024 campaign, which saw them secure four wins in seven starts. The Finnish duo’s partial campaign this year was a strategic masterstroke, and their return to a full schedule promises fireworks in 2025.
Evans, Katsuta, and Ogier Strengthen the Core
- Elfyn Evans and co-driver Scott Martin, fresh from their Rally Japan victory, continue their formidable partnership into a sixth season with Toyota.
- Takamoto Katsuta and co-driver Aaron Johnston also return, bolstering Toyota’s lineup with consistency and experience.
- Sébastien Ogier, the eight-time world champion, and co-driver Vincent Landais will once again contest a select schedule, after claiming three victories in 2024.
Leadership Reinforced by Rally Legends
Jari-Matti Latvala remains at the helm as Team Principal, bringing his wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the team. In a special touch, Latvala will showcase one of Toyota’s most iconic cars, the Celica ST185, in the FIA European Historic Rally Championship.
Adding further depth to the leadership is Juha Kankkunen, a four-time world champion, who steps into the role of Deputy Team Principal. Kankkunen, who clinched his last title with Toyota in 1993, will mentor the drivers and share his unrivaled expertise.
Eyes on 2025: A Season of Ambition
Toyota Gazoo Racing’s 2025 lineup reflects its commitment to innovation and excellence. With the addition of rising star Sami Pajari alongside world-class veterans like Rovanperä, Evans, and Ogier, the team is poised to maintain its dominance while fostering the next generation of rally champions. Fans can expect another thrilling season as TGR-WRT aims to extend its legacy in the WRC.