Pajari to contest full WRC2 programme in 2023

The youngster won the FIA Junior WRC in 2021 and returned to defend his crown this year alongside additional WRC2 outings with a Fabia Rally2. 

Although Pajari was unsuccessful in his junior title defence (he finished third in the one-make series), impressive performances in the WRC’s premier support category - including a stage win on home soil in Finland - have whet his appetite for a full assault in 2023. 

Co-driven by Enni Mälkönen, Pajari will drive a Škoda prepared by leading WRC2 team Toksport.

“What lies ahead next season sounds like a dream come true,” he said. “I’m of course thrilled and looking forward to making the most out of such an opportunity.

“There could not be a better partner for us for the future than such a wonderful and thoroughly professional team like Toksport, but there is still much work to be done this season before I can switch focus to next year,” he added.

Before switching his attention to 2023, Pajari must complete this week’s FORUM8 Rally Japan (10 - 13 November) - his first time competing at a long-haul WRC event. 

The 20-year-old has entered a Toksport Fabia Rally2 and will support team-mate Emil Lindholm, who could seal the WRC2 title at the season finale. 

“It will be an interesting event,” he said of Japan. “From what I learned from the recce, the roads are very technical - mainly narrow and rather slow. 

“Of course I’m also looking forward to seeing the local fans and their culture. I know in Japan the fans are very enthusiastic and dedicated.”