After completing his first season in the CrossCar Junior ranks with a 16th-place finish in the overall RallyX standings, Jere Huuhka used the 2025 campaign to take a significant step forward in his development.

The young Finnish driver secured his first-ever qualification for a final and went on to finish ninth in a category widely regarded as a breeding ground for some of rallycross’ most promising talents in recent years.

Enough to fuel fresh ambitions for Huuhka, who has confirmed his full-time commitment to RallyX.
Beyond the results, it is above all the sheer enjoyment of driving and the championship’s unique atmosphere that have strengthened the young Finn’s attachment to RallyX.

“CrossCar is first and foremost about having fun. I love driving, but I also really enjoy the atmosphere around the races and the time spent with the other drivers at the circuits. A RallyX weekend is very complete: you fight hard on track, but you also fully enjoy the event,” he explains.

A feeling further reinforced by the friendly spirit that defines the paddock.

“All RallyX events are interesting to follow, even once your own races are over. The paddock atmosphere is excellent and, away from the track, we share a lot together. Race weekends are obviously about competition, but they’re also genuine moments of life spent with friends.”

From a sporting perspective, the 2025 season marked a clear step up compared to his rookie campaign.

“I’ve improved in every area. With experience, the stress during races has decreased, which has helped me avoid major mistakes,” Huuhka admits, fully aware of the ground he has covered.

This upward trajectory has also been built through methodical work on both the equipment and himself.

“We’ve put a lot of effort into developing and fine-tuning the CrossCar to make it faster and more competitive. At the same time, my driving has gradually improved. Today, I have more confidence in myself and in the work we’ve done, which allows me to approach races in a calmer and more structured way.”

As the 2026 season approaches, the Finnish driver prefers to move forward without putting unnecessary pressure on himself, fully conscious of the highly competitive nature of the CrossCar Junior category.

“I don’t set myself specific numerical targets in CrossCar, but it would obviously be very satisfying to reach the finals as often as possible,” he points out.

Huuhka is also excited by the championship’s international dimension.

“The level is extremely high, and several Finnish drivers will be competing this season, which means we’ll also be racing against each other. I’m really looking forward to discovering the circuits in France and the Netherlands, while the other tracks on the calendar are already familiar to me thanks to the experience gained over the past two seasons.”

Throughout this steady progression, family support and the technical entourage play a central role—starting with his older brother Riku, who, after a 2025 season dedicated to completing his military service, will also return full-time to RallyX.

“Riku advises me when needed and gives me very straightforward feedback, which is important to keep improving. It’s a real plus to have him back this year. We usually travel to races together, while my parents follow with the truck,” he adds.

An essential day-to-day support throughout race weekends.

“At the events, my father and grandfather help me the most, along with our mechanics Jani Säde and Timo Laapotti. My mother takes care of all the logistics and catering. We’re a very close-knit team, and everyone knows they can rely on the others at any time.”

Always keen to continue progressing, Huuhka is also focusing on the work done ahead of the season.

“I believe that if I have the opportunity to train more before the championship starts, my results can only improve,” he reflects.

A balance he also maintains away from the racetrack.

“Alongside school, I’m involved in other activities as well. I’ve been selected to take part in a school robotics competition and will be traveling to Andorra in March to compete,” he continues, before concluding with enthusiasm.

“I think it’s important to have several interests when you’re young—they complement each other rather than exclude one another. I’m convinced the coming season will be a great one, and I really can’t wait for the racing to begin.”