Pajari wins every stage on first day in Estonia

Toyota's Sami Pajari set a blistering pace on the opening leg of Rally Estonia, clinching victory in all seven stages to seize the lead. The Finn demonstrated exceptional control and speed over the predominantly gravel stages, building a commanding 14.7-second advantage.

Pajari's performance puts him ahead of his Swedish teammate Oliver Solberg, who sits in second place. Close behind in third is Hyundai's Adrien Fourmaux, keeping the pressure on the Toyota duo. "I didn't have any moments, and it seems under control," Pajari commented after his dominant day. "I'm pushing all I can. I'm just trying to enjoy it. This was proper action, a super-nice day."

Further down the order, Hyundai's Thierry Neuville occupies fourth place. Sebastien Ogier, the reigning nine-time world champion driving for Toyota, is competing in the event for the first time since 2021 and is currently in fifth. Meanwhile, Japan's Takamoto Katsuta was forced to retire for the day before the final stage due to a front left tire delamination.

Championship leader Elfyn Evans faced a challenging day, burdened by the disadvantage of opening the road. He languished in ninth place, a considerable 49.8 seconds adrift of Pajari. Evans currently holds an 11-point lead over Katsuta in the overall standings after eight of the season's 14 rounds.

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I didn't have any moments, and it seems under control. I'm pushing all I can. I'm just trying to enjoy it. This was proper action, a super-nice day.