Toyota did have Takamoto Katsuta, however anticipating somebody who’d by no means received a rally earlier than to struggle for the title would’ve been optimistic at finest.
Realistically Evans was the crew’s solely hope. Ensuring that wasn’t the case once more was key for Latvala in 2025.
“General, after we went with two full-time drivers, we knew that it might be a bit extra difficult through the season – and it was,” Latvala mirrored.
“Ultimately we needed to ask Sébastien Ogier to drive extra occasions, which he was then keen to do.
“So this yr, undoubtedly, that was the plan to have three drivers full-time.”
Welcome again Rovanperä – you’ve been missed. However Toyota has taken that even one step additional with Sami Pajari becoming a member of his fellow Finn, Evans and Katsuta on a 14-round program.
The complete-time return of the two-time world champion, although, is the apparent coup. Privately, Toyota should be feeling that bit extra assured with the 24-year-old main the road given his earlier prowess.
Nevertheless it equally has each cause to imagine Rovanperä’s return will convey out the most effective in Evans, too.
