Rally legend Alén: Sami Pajari will win often, 'the lock opens'

Finnish rally driver Sami Pajari, 24, has secured his first World Championship main class victory at the Estonia Rally. Rally legend Markku Alén believes this win marks a significant turning point for Pajari, stating that "the lock opens" and that future successes will now come more easily.

Alén praised Pajari's performance, noting his strong start and dominant run, setting the fastest time on 12 special stages. Pajari, known for his analytical approach, has gradually increased his pace and is now fulfilling expectations. Alén commented that while winning rallies is never easy, Pajari's mental approach to competition and success has become easier.

Pajari's victory was particularly impressive given his previous season in the Rally1 factory car, which was not an easy start despite having a winning car and a strong team. Alén observed that Pajari has been steadily increasing his speed, and although he didn't have immediate pressure to win, he has seized opportunities.

With seven World Championship podium finishes in the main class, Pajari now exudes confidence. He is considered a favorite for the upcoming Jyväskylä WRC Rally in Finland. Although the Estonian gravel roads differ slightly from those in Finland, the overall nature of the stages is similar, suggesting Pajari's car will be competitive. Alén believes Pajari's success in Estonia is a "lottery win" for him and the Jyväskylä rally, especially with Kalle Rovanperä not competing.

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Uskon, että Jyväskylästä tulee hänelle hieno kilpailu. Ja Pajarin voitto Virossa on lottovoitto positiivisessa mielessä hänen itsensä lisäksi myös Jyväskylän MM-rallille. Kalle (Rovanperä) on poissa lähtöviivalta, mutta Samin menestys varmaankin innostaa yleisöä.