Citroen Racing yesterday confirmed that Esapekka Lappi will join Sebastien Ogier in 2019. Meanwhile Toyota Gazoo Racing has confirmed that Kris Meeke, whose contract with Citroen was prematurely ended, will join existing drivers Ott Tanak and Jari-Matti Latvala. Hyundai and M-Sport have still to announce their drivers. Citroen recently announced that the World Drivers’ Championship is their priority over the Manufacturers’ series in 2019 and they are not looking for a regular third driver. Toyota’s choice of 39-year old Meeke is intriguing. It will be Meeke’s first drive for a Japanese team and he will work alongside teammates who are six and eight years younger than him. It is over five years since a WRC driver older than Meeke has won a WRC event. It is believed that he will also be competing with a new, unannounced co-driver, replacing 40-year old Paul Nagle, who has been with Meeke for five years when Meeke won all his five WRC victories. Toyota’s driver policies are notable. Four of the five oldest drivers to win WRC events all drove Japanese cars, and Japan has a celebrated annual public holiday called Respect for the Aged Day!  

SUBSCRIBE BELOW TO READ THE FULL STORY

RallySport Magazine Subscription
Select Subscription Level
Select Subscription Length
Recurring Subscription Cost
A subscription to RallySport Magazine give you access to all our rally content from Australia, New Zealand and around the world – with news, features and experiences nobody can match. Our team are dedicated to providing an unrivalled experience which shares, supports and promotes the sport of rallying.
Already have an account?

By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine. If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.

We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires. If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period. You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.

Account Details
Payment Information

By clicking "Subscribe Now" you agree to receive news, offers and updates on RallySport Magazine. If you do not wish to receive marketing communications, you can update your preferences in My Account.

We will commence charging your payment method after the 7 day free trial expires. If you cancel after expiry of your trial, cancellation will take effect from the end of your current monthly subscription period. You will not be refunded any fees paid to RallySport Magazine unless otherwise set out in the terms and conditions.

Show Your Support

Author

Title