Sami Pajari makes history with third consecutive WRC victory in Paraguay

Finnish driver Sami Pajari, alongside co-driver Marko Salminen, secured his third consecutive victory at the 11th round of the World Rally Championship (WRC) in Paraguay. Competing for Toyota Gazoo Racing, the duo made history by becoming the first crew in the sport's history to claim their first three career wins in three successive events. This performance adds to their previous triumphs in Estonia and Finland, significantly strengthening Pajari's position in the championship title battle.

The event proved highly demanding, with challenging gravel stages testing the limits of vehicles and tires. Pajari initially faced adversity on Friday due to a water leak that dropped him to seventh place, but he successfully managed the mechanical issue until the mid-day service. After regaining the lead, he maintained a consistent pace, finishing Saturday with a 24.1-second advantage over his rivals. Hyundai drivers Hayden Paddon and Adrien Fourmaux completed the podium in second and third place respectively, while championship leader Elfyn Evans finished fourth.