Yamamoto targets maiden WRC2 podium at Rally Japan

Toyota Gazoo Racing WRC Challenge Program driver Yuki Yamamoto is heading into Rally Japan with high aspirations, seeking his first WRC2 podium finish on home soil. Despite failing to finish his previous two attempts at the event, the 29-year-old enters this year’s competition buoyed by a season of steady growth, including a top-five performance at Rally Finland.

Yamamoto acknowledged the significance of performing before his local supporters, citing their presence as a major motivational factor. While he enters the weekend with confidence in his preparation and familiarity with the route, he faces a highly competitive field. His rivals include experienced class podium finishers such as Alejandro Cachón, Nikolay Gryazin, Emil Lindholm, and fellow Japanese competitor Hiroki Arai.

This week’s rally marks only his second points-scoring start of the year alongside co-driver James Fulton. With a mix of new and familiar stages awaiting the field, Yamamoto is focused on securing a standout result that reflects his recent development within the WRC's second tier.