TEN FOR A RALLY1 RIDE

Motorsport News considers 10 worthy candidates for a factory Rally1 seat in 2022.

Craig Breen (Ireland, 31):

Yet to register his breakthrough WRC win but equally waiting for the perfect opportunity. To call Breen committed is a massive understatement.

Adrien Fourmaux (France, 26):

In only his fifth season of rallying, Fourmaux is miles behind in terms of experience but way ahead when potential alone is considered.

Nikolay Gryazin (Russia, 23):

Still some rough edges to knock off and a little prone to crashing but Malcolm Wilson didn’t hand him a World Rally Car test for the fun of it.

Takamoto Katsuta (Japan, 28):

Croatia stage win double underlined the ex-Formula 3 racer’s obvious potential. Perhaps 2022 is a year too soon while he finds more consistency.

Esapekka Lappi (Finland, 30):

A WRC winner and proven frontrunner. Dominated WRC2 on Arctic Rally Finland and keen on a return to the top table.

Kris Meeke (Northern Ireland, 41):

Meeke’s arduous fitness regime means his age isn’t a factor, while his five WRC wins, blinding speed and technical nous should not be overlooked.

Andreas Mikkelsen (Norway, 31):

Using a combined WRC2/European Rally Championship campaign to get his career back on track after leaving Hyundai following a two-year stint. Still has plenty to offer.

Kalle Rovanpera (Finland, 20):

All but confirmed as a factory driver but it’s important to highlight the young Finn’s worthiness for Rally1 seat time.

Oliver Solberg (Sweden, 19):

His performances in year one of his two-year Hyundai deal mean he continues to talk himself into a Rally1 ride next season.

Teemu Suninen (Finland, 27):

Hasn’t enjoyed the best of times in recent campaigns and his stage one Monte shunt was a blow but the talent remains. Needs a big result now.