HMDP Preview: First 2018 rally for Jari and Antti in WRC2

Our driver development program, HMDP, opens a brand new chapter at Rally Sweden as our Finnish crew of Jari Huttunen and Antti Linnaketo aim to make their mark on WRC2.

Since their appointment as our HMDP crew in September 2017, Jari and Antti have been working closely with our team in Alzenau to prepare for their first campaign in Hyundai Motorsport colours.

“It is an exciting moment,” says our Team Principal Michel. “Sweden should be a good first test for Jari and Antti. They will be rallying in snowy conditions, in which they are confident, but at the same time knowing that the WRC2 competition is immensely tough.”

Finns aim to finish

For Jari, this rally is the culmination of many months hard work. “We have been working closely with the team since our appointment as the HMDP crew,” he said. “Sweden is where we have the chance to put into practice all that we have learned so far.”

Despite high aspirations, the objectives for this first event of 2018 are realistic. “We know we are in the deep end with a lot of quick rivals in WRC2,” acknowledged Jari. “All we can do is our best and aim for the finish.”

Michel agreed: “All we want is for them to have a trouble-free weekend, to bring the car home and to gain valuable experience.”

WRC2 action starts at the Karlstad trotting track for Thursday evening’s Super Special.