Ari Vatanen

Vatanen’s career embodied the highest peaks of rallying glory and the lowest valleys of recovery. His comeback stories and thrilling stage performances made him a beloved figure worldwide.

• Ford Escort RS1800: His 1981 title-winning machine, expertly balanced for his high-speed Scandinavian style.
• Peugeot 205 T16: One of the most iconic Group B cars, used in multiple victories and spectacular stage performances.
• Opel Ascona and Citroën ZX Rallye Raid: Drove in early and post-WRC years with success across multiple platforms.

Vatanen’s car control under extreme duress — famously captured in onboard footage — became rallying folklore. His daring driving made even the wildest machines look composed under pressure.

Vatanen’s style was flamboyant, daring, and often miraculous. He thrived on fast gravel and mixed-surface rallies, where commitment and bravery could win stages. His 1985 Argentina crash nearly ended his career, but his comeback only amplified his legend. Beyond racing, his political career and humanitarian work cemented his place as one of motorsport’s most multi-dimensional personalities.

David Richards, who later founded Prodrive, was Vatanen’s most iconic co-driver. Their 1981 title was built on mutual respect, trust, and an ability to stay calm in chaos. Vatanen later partnered with Terry Harryman and others during his Peugeot and Dakar years. His appreciation for co-drivers and team effort was a hallmark of his career, even when driving at the ragged edge.