James Fulton will assume the co‑driver role for Takamoto Katsuta in the Toyota WRC team at next week’s Rally Chile, replacing Aaron Johnston as the regular navigator misses the gravel event to recover from a fractured collarbone.
Toyota’s Replacement Decision for Rally Chile
Toyota confirmed Friday that Johnston’s collarbone fracture, discovered after a severe crash on Stage 21 in Paraguay, keeps him out of the Chile rally until he regains full mobility. The Toyota WRC Challenge Program driver Yuki Yamamoto will now call the pace notes for the GR Yaris Rally1, with Topi Luhtinen drafted in as the navigator for Yamamoto.
Crash Details and Recovery Timeline
Katsuta and Johnston initially emerged unharmed after the crash and were taken to hospital for precautionary checks. Further examinations upon return revealed the collarbone injury, prompting the team to postpone Johnston’s return to competition and welcome him back when his recovery is complete.
Katsuta’s Perspective Ahead of Chile
Expressing gratitude for Fulton’s backing, Katsuta said the Chilean audience remains highly supportive, yet the gravel stages—often cambered and narrow with tight margins—will require meticulous tire management and careful navigation, especially on the second pass.
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