Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT confirmed today its driver line-up for next season which is very similar to this year's.
More specifically, Kalle Rovanpera and Elfyn Evans renewed their contracts with Toyota and will take part in all rallies next year. The small difference from this year's line-up is that Esapekka Lappi joined Hyundai for 2023 while Takamoto Katsuta received a promotion and will share the third GR Yaris Rally1 with Sebastien Ogier who wanted a partial programme.
"It has been a great three years already with this team, especially during this past season obviously when we could achieve some amazing results", Rovanpera said.
"Hopefully we can continue in a similar way next year and fight together with the team to win all three championships again.
"I think it will be an even bigger challenge to defend our titles because the competition is getting tougher all the time, but we will of course try our best".
Moreover, Evans said: "I'm excited to be heading into my fourth year with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing.
"We obviously enjoyed some great success already in our first two years together, and although 2022 didn't deliver quite what I was hoping for on my side, I'm very happy to be part of such a successful team and one which is working so hard to improve all the time.
"Hopefully we can make 2023 a much stronger year on a personal side and continue the great success of the team".
In addition to these quotes, Katsuta said: "I'm really excited to make this next step in my career.
"To have this kind of role with the team has been a big target for me and I want to thank TOYOTA GAZOO Racing for giving me such an amazing opportunity.
"Of course it will bring a bit more pressure than before, but I am very motivated to keep working hard to be ready for next season and to do the best job I can for the team".
Finally, Ogier said: "I'm very happy to continue my cooperation with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing in 2023 with a partial programme, similar to what I have done this year.
"It's something that I'm really enjoying, as it gives me the chance to race for a top team and keep following my passion, while also having a bit more time with my family and to do some different things.
"For me it's great to carry on with the team and I look forward to fighting for more wins together".
Photo Credits: Toyota
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