Solberg’s WRC2 ambitions take shape with Printsport move

The Swede came heartbreakingly close to this year’s championship, finishing runner-up to Sami Pajari by just three points while piloting a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2. With Pajari moving up to the premier Rally1 category, Solberg will effectively step into the Finn’s role at Printsport, committing to a full campaign next season.

“The target for 2025 is definitely to push for the title,” Solberg declared. “I’m really proud of what we achieved this year and to miss out on the championship by three points definitely hurts. But, I’m only looking forward now. Like I said, I’m super-proud of what me and Elliott [Edmondson, co-driver] did and leaving Škoda was not an easy decision – I’m very grateful to everybody from Škoda Motorsport and the whole Toksport team for the last two years.

“The aim now is to try to win as many WRC2 rounds and, of course, the championship next season.”

Solberg is eager to hit the ground running with his new team: “Printsport is a very professional, successful team. I know many of the guys from the past, so it felt right to go with them. And, of course, we know all about the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 – it’s incredible to think this car only came out for the first time 11 months ago.

“I will find out more about how the Yaris feels in stage mode when I drive it for the first time soon, but I think everybody appreciated the development work Toyota GAZOO Racing put in. I know it’s a fast car – I know how hard I was pushing to stay ahead of Jari-Matti [Latvala, TGR team principal] when he was driving one in Finland this year!

“Printsport has a good testing schedule through 2025 and, like always, I’m sure there will be some additional developments coming from Toyota GAZOO Racing. There’s a good plan to be as well prepared as possible.”

While the focus is firmly on WRC2, the potential for Rally1 opportunities cannot be ruled out. Solberg, who previously had a stint in Rally1 machinery with Hyundai in 2022, has a 2025 programme that his team hints will include further details, set to be revealed in the coming weeks.