Like the vast majority of the service park, I’ve always got on with Katsuta. Even when he was dropped for Chile and Central Europe Rally two years ago and he didn’t want to talk to anybody, he still answered the phone and he did it with grace, dignity and a discussion which will forever remain private.
I’m fortunate enough to have worked closely with a number of drivers down the years, but few have garnered the respect – on every level – Katsuta has. Like everybody at this elite level, he’s hard on those around him, but he’s even harder on himself. And Sunday’s celebrations were the result of that approach.
Looking longer term, what does this mean? Is he a title contender? Why not? Absolutely why not? Where can’t he win? Show me some tricky asphalt and I’ll show you an absolute belter of a weekend drive in a sodden Japan three years ago. Show me the need for speed and I’ll point you in the direction of the Jyväskylä podium’s second step last time out. Rough gravel? Think we can put that one to bed now.
Katsuta’s wanted this win for so long and, as discussed, he’s come close too many times. Now he knows how to do it, he’s found the key and figured out the conundrum that is success at sport’s very highest level. It’s well recognized that securing that maiden win releases pressure and allows the shoulders to drop further.
Taka and Aaron are not new to this sport: the Safari was their 94th and 71st WRC start respectively. They’ve been around the block and they know this game, so the combination of that experience, the Toyota’s pace and a win under their belt is what makes them a fascinating addition to this year’s title fight.
Read David Evans’ full thoughts and analysis on Kastuta’s victory on Club DirtFish
