Finnish tax authorities have moved against Jari-Matti Latvala, confiscating real estate and cars owned by the former Toyota driver.
“It really happened,” he told a Finnish newspaper. “I have been confiscated of some cars and real estate. It came as a surprise to me and I am confused by such a decision. However it is routine in such a situation.”
The tax authorities believe he owes up to €5-6 million in tax from 2014 and 2015. He moved to Monaco in 2009 but the tax authorities believe he spends more time in Finland than Monaco. Latvala has appealed the decision.
“The tax office has calculated the tax for several years and made its own decision,” added the former Toyota WRC driver. “Although the dispute is ongoing I have paid the taxes so far to show my willingness to co-operate. That’s why the authorities’ decision [to confiscate] was such a surprise to me.”
Latvala is contesting only a few rallies this year, having been dropped by Toyota. It is reported that he is said to have earned between €1 and €1.5 million in 2019 plus bonuses.