After an impressive rookie campaign in RallyX, Iivari Mannisto heads into the 2026 season with a very different status. Now firmly on the radar, the Finnish driver embodies the new wave of CrossCar Junior talent more than ever.

It has taken just one season for Mannisto to transition from rising prospect to established contender. In 2025, the young Finn made a strong impression, establishing himself as one of the most promising drivers in the CrossCar Junior category—so much so that he now approaches the 2026 campaign as a clear title contender.

Finishing third in the RallyX overall standings in his first full season, Mannisto delivered consistent performances, reaching six finals and securing three podium finishes, while also clinching the Finnish CrossCar Junior title.

“The 2025 season was very positive overall, even if it proved demanding, particularly with the discovery of the CrossCar Junior category,” Mannisto explains.

“I had high expectations, especially with my move into RallyX, and I can now say that those objectives were achieved.”

With nearly 1,100 kilometers completed over the course of the season and 17 races contested between RallyX and the Finnish championship, Mannisto maintained an intense schedule to accelerate his development.

“That amount of track time was essential. The pace was demanding, but it allowed me to stay consistently in rhythm,” he adds.

While consistency was one of his key strengths, Mannisto’s season was not without its challenges—and it was precisely in those moments that he developed resilience.

“The Finnish championship title was particularly hard-fought. The season wasn’t straightforward, with a few difficult phases along the way. The final remains the most memorable moment in my eyes. Despite being involved in a major incident, I managed to get going again and fight my way back to secure the title,” he says.

That ability to bounce back speaks volumes about his maturity.

“I’ve been able to improve in sometimes very difficult conditions. There are still areas to work on, particularly starts, which remain crucial at this level,” he admits.

Building on a strong debut campaign, Mannisto now steps into a new dimension. In 2026, he will no longer be just an outsider to watch, but one of the drivers to beat.

The Finnish driver is well aware of it, even as he remains measured in his approach.

“The results from last season provide a solid foundation and strong motivation, even if everything is not yet perfect. The goal is to consistently reach the finals and fight for as many podiums as possible. But I want to stay focused on each race without putting unnecessary pressure on myself.”