5 December 1949 – 25 June 2026
Finnish motorsport has lost one of its longest-serving and most respected figures. Timo Hantunen passed away at the age of 76 after a short illness.
Hantunen was best known as a legendary rally co-driver, but his contribution to motorsport extended far beyond rallying. During his remarkable career, he co-drove for 82 drivers, amassed 1,115 competition starts and competed in Rally Finland on an extraordinary 38 occasions. Alongside rallying, he also competed over the decades in enduro, motocross, ice racing and circuit racing.
For Timo Hantunen, motorsport was more than a sport – it was a way of life. Alongside his own competitive career, he dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring young drivers and co-drivers. He generously shared his knowledge and experience with future generations, helping countless competitors take their first steps in the sport.
Timo Hantunen was also a larger-than-life personality whose company was never dull. He loved humour, laughed wholeheartedly – often at his own jokes – and had a remarkable ability to lift the mood wherever he was. At the same time, he was a keen observer whose sharp wit and unexpected one-liners regularly caught people by surprise, always delivered with a twinkle in his eye. It was an essential part of the “Hantunen” that so many came to know and cherish.
Beyond the world of competition, Hantunen was renowned as a highly skilled mechanic and a true man who could fix almost anything. His expertise ranged from mopeds, scooters and boat engines to chainsaws and cars. For many, he was the person who always seemed to have a solution – and who was never hesitant to lend a helping hand. He continued doing what he loved until the very last days of his life.
Timo Hantunen’s legacy will live on in Finnish motorsport – in its history, its stories and, above all, in the people whose lives he touched as a competitor, mentor and friend. His passing leaves a profound void across the entire motorsport community.
Secto Rally Finland joins Timo Hantunen’s family, loved ones, friends and the entire Finnish motorsport community in mourning his passing.
Thank you for everything, Timo.
Rest in peace.
