Toyota-powered Sesks hoping he’s the ERC driver in front

The former Junior ERC champion switches from Škoda to Toyota power for this title charge, which will once again be supported by co-driver Renārs Francis and Latvia-based Sports Racing Technologies.  

Relying on MRF Tyres – the brand that helped him to two ERC victories in 2023 – Sesks, 24, will partner with Latvijas Mobilais Telefons, the national telecommunications and technology giant, and Storent Group, a leading rental equipment company in the Baltics.

“Last year, we enjoyed a successful ERC season, securing the position of vice-champions,” Sesks said during the launch of his ERC campaign in the Latvian capital Riga this morning. “However, as we advance in the ERC, we must embrace growth and new challenges, too. As competition intensifies daily with the inclusion of WRC drivers switching to ERC, our participation demands maximum development. This is facilitated by Sports Racing Technologies' expertise in working with the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2.   

“Naturally, there will be a learning curve as the team familiarises itself with the new car, and we anticipate additional challenges, such as increased Tarmac stages throughout the season. With only three stages on gravel and three rallies entirely new to us, we acknowledge our lack of experience. Nevertheless, we are committed to thorough preparation and hard work to ensure a strong season, continually learning and evolving along the way.”

Juris Binde, president of Latvijas Mobilais Telefons, stated that the firm “has been and will continue to be involved in the most significant moments of the promising Latvian rally driver’s career, including the 2024 ERC season”.  

Guntis Grīnbergs, CEO of Storent Group, said: “The Storent team is inspired by Mārtiņš's personality and achievements. Like Mārtiņš, we are strong individuals who believe in our abilities, responsibly carry out our work, and strive to be the best in our field.”

Sesks was a teenager when he made his ERC debut on his hometown event, Rally Liepāja, in 2016. He became Junior ERC champion two years later and bagged his first outright podium in 2019.   

After building his experience in the FIA Junior WRC Championship, Sesks returned to the European arena in 2022 and went fastest on all 12 stages to win Tet Rally Liepāja for his maiden ERC victory. He completed the 2023 season with two victories and two podium finishes and starts 2024 among the growing list of title contenders.  

Now using all-gravel stages and based in the city of Veszprém, V Rally Hungary opens the new ERC season from 12 - 14 April.