Millener backs WRC2 star Huttunen

Huttunen debuted for the British squad at last season’s Monza finale - where he claimed victory in the premier support class - and has contested three rounds with the Fiesta Rally2 this year. 

The Finn has scored two podiums so far, including third at Rally Italia Sardegna earlier this month, where he was slowed by two punctures.  

Millener admitted he has been impressed by the youngster, adding that Huttunen’s performances were important in demonstrating the Rally2 car’s potential. 

“I think, when we don’t have so many [Rally2] cars competing, it’s hard for us because we know the car is competitive” he explained. “We know it’s fast enough, and that’s exactly what we’ve seen in Italy. 

“Jari had two punctures and a half spin, so there were plenty of ‘what could have beens’, let’s say. But, when you look at the number of stage wins he had over the weekend, it’s been really positive. 

“It shows he’s getting used to the car and proving his way. We gave him goals at the start of the year to get a certain number of podiums, so it’s going very well and we’re pretty happy with how things have turned out,” he added.

Huttunen told WRC.com he feels comfortable in the car and insisted that his priority - for now - is his WRC2 campaign. 

“The feeling in the [Rally2] car is really good. It’s really nice to drive and we can do some nice times,” said the 28-year-old. 

“I’m happy at the moment and, right now, I am just concentrating on this class.”