Hyundai WRT

[WRCStan]

https://rallyjournal.com/thierry-neuville-makes-a-surprising-revelation-is-the-rally-star-ending-his-career/

“A lot has happened in recent weeks. Nothing is clear today. What’s happened can make me reconsider my desires, but also the opportunities.”

[EstWRC]

https://rallyjournal.com/thierry-neuville-makes-a-surprising-revelation-is-the-rally-star-ending-his-career/

“A lot has happened in recent weeks. Nothing is clear today. What’s happened can make me reconsider my desires, but also the opportunities.”

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/neuville-clarifies-wrc-future-amid-anger-over-fia-technical-reforms/10587846/

[WRCStan]

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/neuville-clarifies-wrc-future-amid-anger-over-fia-technical-reforms/10587846/

Who needed that clarifying :). We all read it right.

[EstWRC]

Please tell also to others then.

[WRCStan]

If I do then can we expect another announcement tomorrow?

'I never meant to imply that Hyundai are leaving the championship'

I'm going all in on that being the case.

"I said that if Hyundai pulls out, I could be retired by next year for example and that is the truth"

[Tauri_J]

I do wonder what happens with WRC in 3-4 years when Ott, Thierry and Elfyn have retired.

No competition for Kalle

[rp]

I do wonder what happens with WRC in 3-4 years when Ott, Thierry and Elfyn have retired.

No competition for Kalle

Then Kalle is not driving in WRC anymore.

[Eli]

Like we said here a million times, if Hyundai retires, the WRC will be in deep s**t.

[Tauri_J]

Then Kalle is not driving in WRC anymore.

Hopefully, would like to see new generation

[Rallyper]

Like we said here a million times, if Hyundai retires, the WRC will be in deep s**t.

A great opportunity to start over again from square one...

[CeskyOndra]

I have been chating with Thierry now and he told me that he won't leave next year in ANY case.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Who needed that clarifying :). We all read it right.

It needed clarifying as the selective quotes chosen by Rally Journal were misleading...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/neuville-clarifies-2024-retirement-comments/

It's also a bit worrying re Hyundai and Neuville obviously has doubts about their continuation with the new Regs.

[Eli]

I know this is less about the rally itself, but I do hope Hyundai does something special for their livery in Croatia like last year; After all it will be a year since, and I sincerely hope they do something more than 'for Craig' in Croatia.

[becher]

I have been chating with Thierry now and he told me that he won't leave next year in ANY case.

Are you a journalist or team member or...?

[Eli]

Do you guys think after this Rally (Kenya for future reference), & Cyril's statement there's a real threat we won't see Hyundai Motorsport after this season?

[Morte66]

Do you guys think after this Rally (Kenya for future reference), & Cyril's statement there's a real threat we won't see Hyundai Motorsport after this season?

I think it will be decided by men in suits in faraway offices for reasons that make no great sense to the rest of us.

[EstWRC]

I think there is a high chance based on Cyril interviews to dirtfish and autohebdo.

[deephouse]

I think his heart belong to formula. He constantly compare those two sports. Man, I hope he does not pushing out of the sport. Those words about competive car is such dumb. All three manus are on the same page right now and will be even in june, when rules will be on paper. No one will get the advantage. So they will all get same amount of time for preparing their machines. Their decision of staying could also be a factor if they win at least driver championship. It's necessary I think. If both, even better. Hyundai did rise their sale numbers because of the sport, even if they are not winning or dominate. Toyota don't need to rise it because they were already at the top before they came in it. Their boss just like rallying and it's their herritage. Hyundai's decision of ending their N-line of ICE cars is such a stupid move and they will regret it. Some brands are bringing ICE engines back, because they realize EV will never replace that technology.

What I don't get it is why all three were so against hybrid few weeks ago, now when they will remove it from cars, are all against it. Why? Just why?

[masa90]

Do you guys think after this Rally (Kenya for future reference), & Cyril's statement there's a real threat we won't see Hyundai Motorsport after this season?

Yes there is real danger I think. Been rumoured for ages and lets be honest the current future of the whole sport is in dangerous spot to be honest.

[WRCStan]

Do you guys think after this Rally (Kenya for future reference), & Cyril's statement there's a real threat we won't see Hyundai Motorsport after this season?

Not for me, I think there is possibility the manufacturers championship returns to a makes championships and Hyundai will be represented by customers in Rally2/+. Can't have Toyota as the only serious entrant vs M-Sport, even if the results look like it.

I was already saying for some time that Hyundai global are pulling out, but there won't be an announcement mid-season. They don't need to play any PR games, it's clear to every man and his dog that most of the automotive market is moving away from what motorsport offers.

Will be glad to be proven wrong, nothing good to come out of it.

[Backa]

I think his heart belong to formula. He constantly compare those two sports. Man, I hope he does not pushing out of the sport.

I doubt it has anything with his F1 background. He is saying what Hyundai wants him to say. Same as Thierry and Kalle for Toyota. I guess current manufacturers don't enjoy their lack of influence on new regulations.

[Eli]

Instead of PET for Mikkelsen: https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/mikkelsen-to-contest-rally-regione-piemonte-in-hyundai-rally1/

[Eli]

Interesting comments by FX:

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-abandoned-fix-for-lappis-safari-fault-in-2023/

[TypeR]

Interesting comments by FX:

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-abandoned-fix-for-lappis-safari-fault-in-2023/

....we had a problem with this new casing. So we had to cancel the homologation because it was no better than the one we had.
And then.. Abiteboul wines about that Tanak should learn from Neuville, how to handle situations.. :D
Ffs, at the end of the day,one driver is WDC and other 10-years-trying-to-be-one..

[flat_right]

Yeah, not a very good phrasing from Abiteboul I think when he said "Ott will have to get up to speed." The speed is there, just maybe sometimes too much. Ott himself said that it seems like they really need to get their consistency back. Whatever happened on the Friday in Kenya, there was really no other option to save it so there was no chance that time. In Sweden and Monte Carlo, they were clearly his mistakes which normally he shouldn’t do. I just hope that they can put together some decent rallies from now on and avoid mistakes.

[focus206]

And then.. Abiteboul wines about that Tanak should learn from Neuville, how to handle situations.. :D
Ffs, at the end of the day,one driver is WDC and other 10-years-trying-to-be-one..

One had the chance to drive Toyota, one is driving unreliable Hyundai for way too long...
But yes, Abiteboul likes to run his mouth about his drivers.

[meh]

And then.. Abiteboul wines about that Tanak should learn from Neuville, how to handle situations.. :D
Ffs, at the end of the day,one driver is WDC and other 10-years-trying-to-be-one..

I would say the 2nd line is as wrong as the 1st one :) What is your story, if Neuville gets the title this year? :)

[TypeR]

I would say the 2nd line is as wrong as the 1st one :) What is your story, if Neuville gets the title this year? :)
What do you mean wrong?

If he gets the title, then very good for him! I would say that different WDC is good for series PR also..

[Fast Eddie WRC]

FIA’s 2025 WRC rules timeline too tight for Hyundai to do a “good job” says
Cyril Abiteboul:

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/fias-2025-wrc-rules-timeline-too-tight-for-hyundai-to-do-a-good-job-10594403/10594403/

[EstWRC]

FIA’s 2025 WRC rules timeline too tight for Hyundai to do a “good job” says
Cyril Abiteboul:

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/fias-2025-wrc-rules-timeline-too-tight-for-hyundai-to-do-a-good-job-10594403/10594403/

This has hit them pretty hard. I mean you have all the plans for the new car and now just scrap it

[EstWRC]

Based on the current regs but they were changed now and as a regular fan you may think it isn’t a big change but it is

Imagine They had made all the calculations and etc with current regs and now suddenly it’s changed

[drive]

“I’m sure, if the FIA needs a quicker decision, I’m very confident they can find ways. They must appreciate that a ratification of rules in June for a car that needs to be designed, tested and validated for January, it is not a lot of time to design, build, test and validate."
“We are talking about substantial changes to the car and the power and weight distribution and aerodynamic behaviour, and the change to the wing is not a small change. I don’t want to put a figure on it, but it is a huge change. I know we are not in Formula 1, but aero in rally still matters and we are talking about balance shifts, and we need to do a good job around it. There are guidelines but now we need rules and as quickly as possible.”

- said Abiteboul, and it totally makes sense

[WRCStan]

Why did the FIA panic?
Why aren't the other teams complaining? They too need new wings.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Why aren't the other teams complaining? They too need new wings.

They probably are... but not publicly.

Hyundai are also very sensitive after they were well behind the others in car development when the hybrid cars came out in 2022.

Plus the Hyundai HQ wont be at all happy about wasting more money and still unable to beat their deadly rival Toyota.

[EstWRC]

Kenya road book

https://youtu.be/Bethf37Hv_Q?si=4isuaLSPScGtnYoH

[saco0o]

Kenya road book

https://youtu.be/Bethf37Hv_Q?si=4isuaLSPScGtnYoH

im kinda losing interess in wrc this year but these type of content (and what dirtfish does too) are still really fun to watch. dammit, i guess i became a gen-z, needing 'reality show drama' instead of the actual to sport to get enterteined.

[Rallyper]

im kinda losing interess in wrc this year but these type of content (and what dirtfish does too) are still really fun to watch. dammit, i guess i became a gen-z, needing 'reality show drama' instead of the actual to sport to get enterteined.

You hasve a point here. Reality more than incar from stages. But what should it be more than a camera in the face of a mechanics then?

[saco0o]

You hasve a point here. Reality more than incar from stages. But what should it be more than a camera in the face of a mechanics then?

i used to enjoy eurosport's 45 minute highlights from the erc. its basically like what redbull tv does for wrc, but it was all compressed into one 45 minute video instead of three 25 minute video where lots of these 25+25+25 are just recaps and introductions (for saturday and sunday). they used to follow some story more close, like ingram battling lukyanuk, or solberg battling lukyanuk, or following the 'local entry' that normally won the race, which was cool. that said, i think most of us like to see these 'behind the scene' stuff, drivers interacting a little bit, some talks with the mechanics. nothing exagerated, just some piece of the 'whats wrong with the car now?". im becoming a fan of dirt fish's weird coverage, where colin clark is the actual star (haha). those bloopers and the big half hour behind the scenes videos they are doing. if i were in charge, i guess i'd make a mix of these stuff. insert the behind the scene stuff + the "follow the story of the rally", all into the 3 day combined highlights into one thing. have that on tv too, on sunday evening. but anyway, we all have ideas on "how to improve wrc promotion and broadcast" here, eh

[Eli]

On a different matter:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxCYUflNRH4

Tänak's insight from his crash in Monte-Carlo back in 2020.

[TypeR]

Seems like Hyundai drivers are also part time fashion models..
New overalls' design again.
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GLMhJhaW8AANAye?format=jpg&name=medium

[Managarium]

https://i.postimg.cc/CxxGdMKn/436511586-905555304914607-3993521221248676251-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/pp3h6HzP)

https://i.postimg.cc/GpBvJMGc/436365720-905554798247991-4311971647514043634-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/gwWwGHg5)

https://i.postimg.cc/zf9KdnFT/436197465-905554621581342-9086084176289082084-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/R3LWhJ80)

https://i.postimg.cc/TwgmBptF/436306413-905554961581308-3431307787728212875-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/mzZtH2fy)

[Eli]

https://i.postimg.cc/CxxGdMKn/436511586-905555304914607-3993521221248676251-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/pp3h6HzP)

https://i.postimg.cc/GpBvJMGc/436365720-905554798247991-4311971647514043634-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/gwWwGHg5)

https://i.postimg.cc/zf9KdnFT/436197465-905554621581342-9086084176289082084-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/R3LWhJ80)

https://i.postimg.cc/TwgmBptF/436306413-905554961581308-3431307787728212875-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/mzZtH2fy)

That's nice but I was kinda hoping they'd do something more reminiscent to last year. It's somewhat too subdued imho.

[Eli]

https://youtu.be/sTW4YtTbE0U?feature=shared

Another fantastic video from the event, brought to you by Hyundai Motorsport.

[deephouse]

https://youtu.be/sTW4YtTbE0U?feature=shared

Another fantastic video from the event, brought to you by Hyundai Motorsport.

This is the proof that it could be done with fans help. When I propose that kind of coverage everyone here completely lose their minds, like always. But this looks great. I think that it could be fun and championship something spectacular if they offer, that fans could help cover some sections and it would be brodcasted on live.

[rallyfiend]

This is the proof that it could be done with fans help. When I propose that kind of coverage everyone here completely lose their minds, like always. But this looks great. I think that it could be fun and championship something spectacular if they offer, that fans could help cover some sections and it would be brodcasted on live.

Fans are stupid, and would stand in dangerous locations trying to outdo each other. So stages would get cancelled, so the other fans would get angry.

Hang on, maybe this is a good way for FIA and Promoter to get their sprint events, just have moron fans cause half the stages to be cancelled!

[Eli]

This is the proof that it could be done with fans help. When I propose that kind of coverage everyone here completely lose their minds, like always. But this looks great. I think that it could be fun and championship something spectacular if they offer, that fans could help cover some sections and it would be brodcasted on live.

I’ve actually asked Becks about this (some 8+ years ago), I suggested that they’d get coverage from people’s smartphones (‘cause it was already pretty popular at the time) and she replied they’d never do it ‘cause then the promoter would lose too much money.

[TypeR]

About car sharing.. as Mikkelsen's drives were confirmed, can we assume the others..?

Monte - Mikkelsen
Sweden - Lappi
Kenya - Lappi
Croatia - Mikkelsen
Portugal - Sordo
Sardegna - Sordo?
Poland - Mikkelsen
Latvia - Lappi?
Finland - Lappi?
Greece - Sordo?
Chile - Lappi?
CER - Mikkelsen
Japan - Mikkelsen

Then it would be:
5/13 Mikkelsen
5/13 Lappi
3/13 Sordo

[Eli]

About car sharing.. as Mikkelsen's drives were confirmed, can we assume the others..?

Monte - Mikkelsen
Sweden - Lappi
Kenya - Lappi
Croatia - Mikkelsen
Portugal - Sordo
Sardegna - Sordo?
Poland - Mikkelsen
Latvia - Lappi?
Finland - Lappi?
Greece - Sordo?
Chile - Lappi?
CER - Mikkelsen
Japan - Mikkelsen

Then it would be:
5/13 Mikkelsen
5/13 Lappi
3/13 Sordo

Maybe Lappi in Greece and Sordo in Chile given last year’s results?

[Eli]

Liaison episode 4:
https://youtu.be/EWXEE3lquo4?feature=shared

[WRCStan]

Liaison episode 4:
https://youtu.be/EWXEE3lquo4?feature=shared

These really are great videos.

[CeskyOndra]

Maybe Lappi in Greece and Sordo in Chile given last year’s results?

Chile is too fast for Sordo I think, and Sardegna is 99% for Sordo

[CeskyOndra]

About car sharing.. as Mikkelsen's drives were confirmed, can we assume the others..?

Monte - Mikkelsen
Sweden - Lappi
Kenya - Lappi
Croatia - Mikkelsen
Portugal - Sordo
Sardegna - Sordo?
Poland - Mikkelsen
Latvia - Lappi?
Finland - Lappi?
Greece - Sordo?
Chile - Lappi?
CER - Mikkelsen
Japan - Mikkelsen

Then it would be:
5/13 Mikkelsen
5/13 Lappi
3/13 Sordo

I dont think that Hyundai can risk Mikkelsen instead of Lappi in Poland. They should bring 4 cars

[Eli]

Chile is too fast for Sordo I think, and Sardegna is 99% for Sordo

But Lappi’s been there twice and crashed twice, sure Sordo never did Chile but there’s a first time for everything.

[denkimi]

They should bring 4 cars to every rally so all their drivers get maximum experience. They could have them retire if needed to get a better position for the next rally.

[Eli]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-gambles-on-future-wrc-rules/

Seems Hyundai are set to continue developing this year’s i20N into next year, while binning the (recently) planned new i20 for 2025.

[EstWRC]

Portugal road book

https://youtu.be/5idIKiC4Hs8?si=ZzZRh8R0Vfk-jA-a

[EstWRC]

Hyundai has “some ideas” it will test this month to help Ott Tanak unlock the potential from its World Rally Championship challenger, according to team principal Cyril Abiteboul.

https://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/hyundais-plan-to-help-tanak-unlock-potential-from-wrc-car/10613659/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

If you havent heard it yet, this is a must listen.. a quite brilliant episode of Back Stories with Christian Loriaux. Hilarious !

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3qGGFkZjpN6T9BSNPnUcRw?si=2CoBXNoESVeoR6CsR16Puw

[Eli]

As always, the great Liaison, Episode 6:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49ce4SP25ZE

[Mackie]

Watching Mikkelsen testing in Finland. I see he is correcting all the time. It is less important than it is on tarmac, but it is worrying...

[CeskyOndra]

Watching Mikkelsen testing in Finland. I see he is correcting all the time. It is less important than it is on tarmac, but it is worrying...

I have seen some really comited passes too. Let's see, I think that he will be better than on tarmac

[Mackie]

I have seen some really comited passes too. Let's see, I think that he will be better than on tarmac

I really hope so. When I see Tänak gunning for it on these type of stages, he has few corrections. I think you reduce tire wear this way, but hopefully Mikkelsen can find a good setup for him.

[Eli]

Any videos of Mikkelsen testing?

[drive]

Mikkelsen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpe6ipk1NKU

[Eli]

Seeing Hyundai following closely this season (at least in their social media accounts), there’s no way he’ll make a fourth entry this year, right?

[EstWRC]

About who you are talking?

Paddon?

[Eli]

About who you are talking?

Paddon?

Yes, Paddon.Sorry, should've mentioned who lol.

[focus206]

If Hyundai enters 4 cars in one or more rallies, I would imagine them being Tanak, Neuville, Lappi and Mikkelsen.

[deephouse]

Yes, Paddon.Sorry, should've mentioned who lol.

Paddon does promote Hyundai on a big scale, for a long time now, but they don't care much about him. They do brag when he bring good results with that car and that's it. Shame, because I think he could have at least official program in WRC2 and promote there. I think they realize that the car is not as competitive as Skoda or Citroen now. But I think in the hands of Paddon it could be there.

[Backa]

Paddon gets a lot of support from Hyundai New Zealand branch but not from Hyundai Team.

[Eli]

If you havent heard it yet, this is a must listen.. a quite brilliant episode of Back Stories with Christian Loriaux. Hilarious !

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3qGGFkZjpN6T9BSNPnUcRw?si=2CoBXNoESVeoR6CsR16Puw

I second that, listening to it right now, really interesting, I wish we'd get more behind the scenes things like that.

[Eli]

Sordo will drive the Hyundai Ioniq 5N at the Pikes Peak event this weekend: https://dirtfish.com/rally/the-car-sordo-will-drive-on-pikes-peak/

[Eli]

https://youtu.be/h6upeKb8G0E?feature=shared

Raw Rally from Hyundai, top notch as always, only wish it were longer.

[mknight]

https://youtu.be/h6upeKb8G0E?feature=shared

Raw Rally from Hyundai, top notch as always, only wish it were longer.

I thought that touch with the bank at 1:07 was the one that led to Mikkelsens tire off the rim.

Turned out it was Tanak, but looks almost exactly the same.

[EstWRC]

HYUNDAI GEARING UP FOR WEC HYPERCAR PROGRAMME, WRC LONG-TERM FUTURE UNCLEAR

https://www.motorsport.com/wec/news/hyundai-gearing-up-for-wec-hypercar-programme-wrc-long-term-future-unclear/10630566/

[Fast Eddie WRC]

WRC LONG-TERM FUTURE UNCLEAR

https://www.motorsport.com/wec/news/hyundai-gearing-up-for-wec-hypercar-programme-wrc-long-term-future-unclear/10630566/

After all their rumours of quitting if the WRC didnt keep the current Rally1 Hybrid cars til 2027 they will surely see out this cycle.

After that everything is up in the air for every team / manufacturer.

[Eli]

After all their rumours of quitting if the WRC didnt keep the current Rally1 Hybrid cars til 2027 they will surely see out this cycle.

After that everything is up in the air for every team / manufacturer.

Looks like they will quit in 2027, obviously a long way to go, I just we hope we get another manufacturer involved then (ehm Lancia ehm) so at last they would fill the gap.

[EstWRC]

NEUVILLE QUESTIONS TIMING OF HYUNDAI’S NEW ENGINE MAPPING

THE CHAMPIONSHIP LEADER FEELS THE NEW SOFTWARE, WHICH DEBUTED IN POLAND, WASN'T READY TO RALLY

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/neuville-questions-timing-of-hyundais-new-engine-mapping/

[Rallyest]

NEUVILLE QUESTIONS TIMING OF HYUNDAI’S NEW ENGINE MAPPING

THE CHAMPIONSHIP LEADER FEELS THE NEW SOFTWARE, WHICH DEBUTED IN POLAND, WASN'T READY TO RALLY

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/neuville-questions-timing-of-hyundais-new-engine-mapping/

Yeah, idk Seeing Mikkelsen and Tänak it didnt feel like it wasn't ready.

[TWRC]

NEUVILLE QUESTIONS TIMING OF HYUNDAI’S NEW ENGINE MAPPING

THE CHAMPIONSHIP LEADER FEELS THE NEW SOFTWARE, WHICH DEBUTED IN POLAND, WASN'T READY TO RALLY

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/neuville-questions-timing-of-hyundais-new-engine-mapping/
Interesting dynamic is developing with these comments and him feeling "left out" of a test rally opportunity... :D

[flat_right]

Yeah, idk Seeing Mikkelsen and Tänak it didnt feel like it wasn't ready.

I don't know if any journalist reads this forum but this is the question they have to ask from Tänak next rally that did he have any issues with the engine mapping :D For me it looked like good old Tänak that could do very good times also when opening the road or starting at the front.

[Eli]

Liaison Episode 7:
https://youtu.be/l7CMyJ6lsc4?feature=shared
A joy to watch as always.

[Rallyest]

I was thinking last night, same as Sesks was driving in Poland with a weaker car made his debut more impressive. By same logic we should tip our hats to Paddon for the same reason, he is driving so much sh*ittier car and still can be competitive in ERC

[becher]

Yeah, idk Seeing Mikkelsen and Tänak it didnt feel like it wasn't ready.

By that logic the Hyundais were always fine and Tänak was just needlessly moaning that the car wasn't to his liking?

[deephouse]

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/eDVnqHZgC7abnDT4/

Is this true? Man those crying babies can destroy the sport even before they will try to fix it. And they demanded so much lately...

[Backa]

Hyundai leaving WRC is monthly gossip for last few years and so far nothing comes from it.

Hyundai's involvement in WEC doesn't mean they for sure will leave WRC, they are bigger company than they were ~10-20 years ago.

[AndyRAC]

It's not just WEC though; IMSA in North America is a popular series, and their US brand, Genesis is likely to be used. If they've got any sense, they'll pull the WRC effort, it's not bringing anything anymore.

[EstWRC]

By that logic the Hyundais were always fine and Tänak was just needlessly moaning that the car wasn't to his liking?

nice try Thierry

[Eli]

As expected: https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-withdraws-neuvilles-latvia-warm-up-entry/

[Backa]

As expected: https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-withdraws-neuvilles-latvia-warm-up-entry/

To be honest, I am surprised Lappi will get a drive while Neuville not. If I would be Hyundai, I would prioritize both Ott and Thierry over others as much as Ott and Thierry need or want.

[mknight]

I am not.

Tanak and Neuville just drove Poland, Lappi has not and has not been in the car for a while. Also Hyundai got some new mapping that Neuville criticized under braking. Lappi had some issues with Toyota mapping under braking first time he was at Toyota in 2018, repeatedly stalling the car.

Second point is that if Neuville gets a little bit faster it likely won't matter much anyway since he will still be 5-6th with his road position, while Lappi can score big for manus.

Anyway the withdrawal is 100% due to Tanak crash, so the atmosphere at Hyundai just turned up a notch.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Agreed. This is where Abiteboul is going to earn his money keeping both Neuville and Tanak happy.

[Eli]

https://youtu.be/GMoepLuPFRY?feature=shared

This is new, I know the chances of it happening are 0 or close to 0 but I would love seeing him tackle a round of the WRC with the (plug-in) hybrid Rally1 car.

[becher]

One crash at a test rally and we are back at manufactured civil war at Hyundai. That's just silly.

[Backa]

One crash at a test rally and we are back at manufactured civil war at Hyundai. That's just silly.

Some fans are really craving for drama, Tanak agreed with Hyundai in Sardegna to not drive too risky and people were acting like this is giving up position to Neuville or something.

So far, Abiteboul is managing that pairing quite well.

[Eli]

One crash at a test rally and we are back at manufactured civil war at Hyundai. That's just silly.

I’m just glad we still have Hyundai and as long as no one else enters (& even then), I hope they stay.

[denkimi]

To be honest, I am surprised Lappi will get a drive while Neuville not. If I would be Hyundai, I would prioritize both Ott and Thierry over others as much as Ott and Thierry need or want.
If i were Hyundai I would enter all my drivers in as many events as possible. You want them to have as much seat time as possible.

[Backa]

If i were Hyundai I would enter all my drivers in as many events as possible. You want them to have as much seat time as possible.

Of course but it's different topic. We are talking about who should be prioritized.

Argument there is nothing to gain due to road position doesn't convince me that much. There is possibility of rain, hanging dust or some other circumstances that can lead to Neuville being more in fight than expected.

Anyway, Kalle's result in Poland can be sign that one more test or lack of it is not big deal.

[Rallyper]

If I were Hyundai I also would start as many cars as possible. But one car should always have a young driver, no matter what country he is from.

[denkimi]

If I were Hyundai I also would start as many cars as possible. But one car should always have a young driver, no matter what country he is from.
Every team that want's to win titels should start as many cars as possible.

[flat_right]

I know that it's already a known thing but will post it anyway as Ott opened up a little bit more. During the Rally Latvia mid day service, Ott was asked about discomfort in the car and how he feels driving it. Is it something that can be changed with car's set up or are there some fundamental changes needed? Ott said this: This isn't something that can be just easily changed but rather a solution needs to be thought out. Adjusting the car's set up won't help. If the conditions are a bit variable, the car becomes very sensitive, making it especially difficult to drive on unfamiliar roads. In such cases, it's challenging for the driver to attack each curve with confidence

[Eli]

I know that it's already a known thing but will post it anyway as Ott opened up a little bit more. During the Rally Latvia mid day service, Ott was asked about discomfort in the car and how he feels driving it. Is it something that can be changed with car's set up or are there some fundamental changes needed? Ott said this: This isn't something that can be just easily changed but rather a solution needs to be thought out. Adjusting the car's set up won't help. If the conditions are a bit variable, the car becomes very sensitive, making it especially difficult to drive on unfamiliar roads. In such cases, it's challenging for the driver to attack each curve with confidence

Unfortunately for him there won’t the new rally1 car that was planned for 2025.

[Eli]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-indicates-wrc-2026-commitment-amid-wec-rumors/

Will be until ‘27 but from ‘27 onwards…no guarantees…

[mknight]

Very unexpected performance from Lappi in Latvia.

He basically never lacked speed before, yes he crashes relatively often, but pace was almost never an issue.

Checking trough results I had to go all the way back to 2020 Estonia in Fiesta WRC for similar lack of pace. But that was after the COVID break with no testing or development at MSport. Some 2019 outings with C3 are probably more comparable.

Real pressurre on before Finland.

[skarderud]

Wery surprised over Lappi's perfomance, or lack of it.
Hopes he do better in Finland, or his future in Hyundai can be unsecure.

Several said that the Hyundai has a small window there its perform and behave good, he didn't find that window, thats for sure.

Is it any upgrades for this car for 2025?
It's not good at tarmac, for most of the drivers, and too small window on gravel.

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[Eli]

Well, while Lappi did underperform, I am glad he found himself more comfortable in the car on Saturday, unfortunately by the time that happened he was opening the road for everyone, hopefully Finland should be better (crossing my fingers for a repeat of ‘22 without the incident before the end).

[Fast Eddie WRC]

His lack of pace didnt actually matter so much for Lappi. He needed to drop behind Neuville anyway such was road sweeping disadvantage in Latvia.

Finland will be more important to prove himself.

[mknight]

Lappi's job was to be top 3 at least after Friday and preferably on Saturday, at minimum he should have been ahead of Evans on Saturday.

Only the total failure on Friday made them drop him to clean for Neuville.

No way they would drop him if he was in reach of some 12-10 teampoints.

[CeskyOndra]

Lappi's job was to be top 3 at least after Friday and preferably on Saturday, at minimum he should have been ahead of Evans on Saturday.

Only the total failure on Friday made them drop him to clean for Neuville.

No way they would drop him if he was in reach of some 12-10 teampoints.

Yeah. If he was TOP after Friday, which was absolutely necessary with his starting position, he wouldn't be dropped behind Neuville. His perfomance cost Hyundai lot of points.

[EstWRC]

Latvia road book

https://youtu.be/V7RjUwwzUxs?si=0F3HFh6pdqeFrSum

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Hyundai WRC future to be clarified soon...

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/hyundai-wrc-future-to-be-clarified-in-very-near-future/10638544/

[EstWRC]

How Hyundai plans to solve “peaky” WRC car

Planned 2025 upgrades to its World Rally Championship car are hoped to solve some of the i20 N Rally1’s problems

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/hyundai-making-big-efforts-to-solve-peaky-wrc-car/10643002/

[trykmann]

Suninens manager comments current situation about his career and the development of i20 rally 2 car https://www.iltalehti.fi/ralli/a/d3c44b75-7b9d-409b-8013-e05c59a96216

[Eli]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/hyundai-could-compete-in-both-wec-and-wrc/
Hopefully we’ll get to see them in 2027 & beyond.

[mknight]

Sordo for Acropolis. Quite surprising considering Mikkelsens performance in Poland compared with Sordos recent ones.

Could be a sign that Mikkelsen is not at Hyundai next year, cause if they were considering him surely they would want to try one more gravel to check if Poland was a one-off?

Alternatively it can be a sign that Hyundai want to play it very safe and be defensive in manu champ now that they got a lead.

[skarderud]

Yes, thats a surprise.
Maybe Mikkelsen goes to M-sport?
He's a Redbull atlet?

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[macebig]

Looks very much like the end of the road for Mikkelsen and Hyundai, yeah. M-Sport will probably opt for Elfyn in case he becomes available,so Andreas is kinda up in the air. Doubtful RB and Ford foot the bill for 3 paid Pumas.

[CeskyOndra]

What if Mikkelsen will get a chance in Chile? Lappi crashed here last year..

[mknight]

It is possible. Sordo also has recent Acropolis experience and he has never been to Chile.

Mikkelsen was there in 2019 but it was probably his weakest rally that year.

In either case he has contract for two more rallies, but those were announced to be CER and Japan.

[CeskyOndra]

It is possible. Sordo also has recent Acropolis experience and he has never been to Chile.

Mikkelsen was there in 2019 but it was probably his weakest rally that year.

In either case he has contract for two more rallies, but those were announced to be CER and Japan.

Maybe Lappi will go to CER, altought he crashed last year.. Mikkelsen was really terrible on Tarmac so far.. It is sad that the car just looks like this and no one can't drive it

[mknight]

Maybe Lappi will go to CER, altought he crashed last year.. Mikkelsen was really terrible on Tarmac so far.. It is sad that the car just looks like this and no one can't drive it

Lappi crashed when pushing (CER) and was as bad as Mikkelsen when taking it safe (Japan). So hard pick. He did well in Croatia but that was some time ago.
Similarly Suninen in CER last year was basically same speed as Mikkelsen in Croatia this year.

In short, Hyundai really have a tarmac issue. For manu title is is critical to do something with it.

[Eli]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/lappis-next-wrc-outing-may-be-his-last/

I'm aware his performances this year (besides Sweden) were sub-par, but Imho it would be a real shame to lose Lappi, a great character, always love to watch his stage end reviews, and a good human-being, I really hope this season won't be the last we'll be seeing of him in the WRC top category.

[doubled1978]

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/lappis-next-wrc-outing-may-be-his-last/

I'm aware his performances this year (besides Sweden) were sub-par, but Imho it would be a real shame to lose Lappi, a great character, always love to watch his stage end reviews, and a good human-being, I really hope this season won't be the last we'll be seeing of him in the WRC top category.

I agree with you about Lappi, I like him, but in the current WRC, there aren’t enough cars.
Pajari, Sesks and Solberg are all knocking on the door and deserving of an opportunity in top cars.
Of course it would help if MSport were able to run a genuine 3 car team, rather than the 1 + Munster we currently have.

[mknight]

A) As I wrote on twitter I think people (DF) focus too much on that one comment from Abiteboul which was more about not letting drivers come to a rally with little practice (citing Lappi in Latvia and Mikkelsen in Monte). The idea to change to full time seat was said as a possible solution. But there are also other solutions.

Seeing that Hyundai won both their previous titles due to part time drivers and Toyota is basically only a threat this year due to part time drivers it would seem weird to go for different strategy just like that.

B) In recent years most of the times DirtFish "announces" rumors about someone moving somewhere long before the end of the season things turn out completely different. So I don't put much into the talk about Fourmaux to Hyundai.

C) With regards to Lappi he has now had quite a few full seasons in last years in all teams (Toyota, Citroen, MSport, Hyundai) and seems to do much better when he is part-time. Everytime he does full season half of it is a disaster. So if Hyundai would indeed go for full season 3rd car I agree that Lappi is not a good candidate. But I still don't believe they aim to do that.

[Eli]

Real shame to see them leave the vacuum, albeit they weren’t competitive in WRC2 this year but still, one less Rally2 car is never a good thing, wish the FIA would start getting on top of things, yes I’m aware the i20N has been discontinued in February this year: https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/whats-the-future-for-hyundais-rally2-car/

[skarderud]

Seems Hyundai put down the i20 next year? Not just a new modell?

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[EstWRC]

Slowly pulling the plug from the series and putting the plug into WEC hybrid machine

[Eli]

Slowly pulling the plug from the series and putting the plug into WEC hybrid machine

They did say they might run in both series but I then Citroën comes to mind with their WTCC & WRC programs back in 2014 and how that ended up…and WEC require (I’m assuming) more resources.

[Backa]

They did say they might run in both series but I then Citroën comes to mind with their WTCC & WRC programs back in 2014 and how that ended up…and WEC require (I’m assuming) more resources.

WEC require more resources than WTCC but it's also provide better visibility for brands. It's not only about costs but also benefits.

Toyota is able to have WRC and WEC programs, some manus have F1 and WEC programs. Hyundai definitely can keep both programs, for me it's more about what WRC can do with regulations to keep them.

[AndyRAC]

The rumours are Hyundai in the WEC, and in IMSA in North America, badged as Genesis, run by a US team.....(who have recently lost the Cadillac WEC programme to Jota)

[denkimi]

Slowly pulling the plug from the series and putting the plug into WEC hybrid machine

Let's first see if they win any wrc titles this year.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Seems Hyundai put down the i20 next year? Not just a new modell?



They aren't making a new Rally2 car until there is clarity on any new Regs. But as the Skoda and Toyota Rally2 are still selling strongly and there are many 100s of top Rally2 cars running I dont see why the Regs for the Class can change much.

Maybe Hyundai are just keeping their budget for improving their Rally1 car.

[driverA]

Hyundai WRT hasn’t got its own thread yet, but from what I’ve read, they’re sticking with their WRC lineup and haven’t announced plans to run four cars or switch between R5 and WRC cars. I’m keeping an eye on their updates for any changes.

[EstWRC]

https://x.com/llluis555/status/1828800476659466384?s=46&t=AWria8OgC1kV5QC61vX5Xg

[Eli]

This is from yesterday: https://www.hyundainews.com/en-us/releases/4227

Okay, they’ll double their hybrid range from 7 currently to 14 models, but in the sea of EV’s, this doesn’t give me much confidence in their WRC future especially as all sports models will follow the Ioniq 5 N…so much for 2027 and beyond I guess…*sigh*

[Francis44]

This is from yesterday: https://www.hyundainews.com/en-us/releases/4227

Okay, they’ll double their hybrid range from 7 currently to 14 models, but in the sea of EV’s, this doesn’t give me much confidence in their WRC future especially as all sports models will follow the Ioniq 5 N…so much for 2027 and beyond I guess…*sigh*

But then why would they leave to go to another hybrid ran series (rumours of WEC)?

Some rumours that the N versions will still be developed in specific models of the hybrid range.

[Eli]

But then why would they leave to go to another hybrid ran series (rumors of WEC)?

Some rumors that the N versions will still be developed in specific models of the hybrid range.

No you're absolutely right but it remains to be seen if it'll be like i20N, i30N, Kona N, Elantra N or merely N-line trim levels.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Its possibly Paddon's last ever rally in Europe this weekend !

https://dirtfish.com/rally/erc/rali-ceredigion-could-be-paddons-last-rally-in-europe/

The fact that Hyundai aren't creating a new Rally2 car could be why he'll only be driving in NZ or Asia in future...

[skarderud]

The fact that Hyundai don't put anything into the Rally2 car, or any team in WRC2 or ERC, is the proof that Hyundai won't be around for ever.
Is it any proposals for changes in the Rally2 formula?

Sent fra min SM-S901B via Tapatalk

[Andre Oliveira]

https://www.autotrends.be/fr/actualit%C3%A9/rallye/WRC---Demaison-en-charge-du-projet-Hypercar--Loriaux-nouveau-directeur-technique-en-rallye-en-2025?fbclid=IwY2xjawFE_bVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHYBW-xPYEl_dtZX-0ZBbPeyGaa-EhXdpWk_7V7T02VzWfzs-vnp3keVsJw_aem_-qYBEN-x1dT0MduSZ3d1GA

[TypeR]

https://www.autotrends.be/fr/actualit%C3%A9/rallye/WRC---Demaison-en-charge-du-projet-Hypercar--Loriaux-nouveau-directeur-technique-en-rallye-en-2025?fbclid=IwY2xjawFE_bVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHYBW-xPYEl_dtZX-0ZBbPeyGaa-EhXdpWk_7V7T02VzWfzs-vnp3keVsJw_aem_-qYBEN-x1dT0MduSZ3d1GA


.....
As a result, it is our compatriot Christian Loriaux who will take over the management of operations at the rally level with i20 WRC1s which should be aligned in 2026 by the French team PH Sport.

Hyundai will also be half private team in WRC in 2026..?

[spyros]

Hyundai will also be half private team in WRC in 2026..?

Bye Bye WRC........

[rp]

Those were the days! Luckily a lot of good memories.

[focus206]

It will probably be important for that decision whether this year Hyundai wins two, one or no titles.

[saco0o]

who needs hyundai? ...and "ford"? ...and citroen? pfff... and vw? ..who needs more than 6 full timers? pfff ...and who needs a promoter willing to sell the championship? ..and...and.. who needs a fia president that lied about how he would be taking care of rallying? pffff.... "the obvious decision is to keep rally1 for 2025"!

...sesks have no idea how good he was to the fans in these desperare times haha

[EstWRC]

ABITEBOUL ADMITS PRIVATE TEAM COULD RUN HYUNDAI’S WRC EFFORT IN 2026

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/abiteboul-admits-private-team-could-run-hyundais-wrc-effort-in-2026/

[TypeR]

Neuville owns PH Sport?

[EstWRC]

Neuville owns PH Sport?

i didnt see PH Sport mentioned in the Dirtfish article

its mentioned in the other one which i dont know how trustworthy that link is

[Eli]

Apart from hints that came from Lancia & Škoda, are there any other manufacturers who've hinted at wanting to come the wrc?

[dimviii]

Neuville owns PH Sport?
There were rumors at Loeb era,that he had share at PH

[Duvel]

Neuville does have a team that is allready renting out rally cars.

I think his brother runs this team now, some Bmw's and also a Yaris rally 2


https://www.life-live.be/en/

[Dimitris]

Apart from hints that came from Lancia & Škoda, are there any other manufacturers who've hinted at wanting to come the wrc?

Subaru

[deephouse]

Apart from hints that came from Lancia & Škoda, are there any other manufacturers who've hinted at wanting to come the wrc?

Stellantis did claim, that they are looking closely at FIA, what they will do with regulations for 2027. And Gryazin/Rossel being supported by the official manufacturer driving Rally2 C3 (doing quite good job at the moment) give us a clue, that they do explore options. Well I hope so.. Fingers crossed.

Lancia (being part of the Stellantis family), start doing on a Rally4 car... But that's it. And recently Stellantis being all over Lancia don't bringing them enough money I don't believe they will enter with that brand.

Skoda, hmmm don't know, but they are so quiet. They really need that challenge being in the top. They are building some sort EV SUV concept race car.

Subaru was also mentioned, but that was only wish from Toyota boss. Ever since it was quiet about them.

Ford are saying if the regs will be right for them they will invest fully in rallying, probably M-Sport will still be the team to do that.

Alpine was in the game too but they want to be the championship fully EV. But even if it would be, I don't think they really have interest in rallying at all.

[TypeR]

Neuville-Hyundai extended the contract and he stays in Hyundai for another year.. so already 2026 sounds uncertain..?

Said it on allLive after SD

[Andre Oliveira]

Thierry Neuville to remain with Hyundai Motorsport in 2025

• Hyundai Motorsport has signed a contract extension with driver Thierry Neuville for the 2025
FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) season
• Confirmation of the Belgian’s continuation for a 12th season reaffirms Hyundai Motorsport’s
commitment to the FIA WRC for 2025
• With Neuville competing alongside Ott Tänak, the Alzenau-based team will once again boast
one of the most competitive driver pairings in the series next year.

Lamia, Greece September 5, 2024 – Hyundai Motorsport and Thierry Neuville have today announced the continuation
of their successful partnership in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) for a 12th season, reaffirming
the team’s commitment to the series for 2025.
The confirmation of Neuville and co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe – in what will be their fifth year together
as a crew – alongside Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja at Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team ensures
continuity and stability for the Alzenau-based outfit as it looks ahead to a new season.
Neuville has played a fundamental role in building up Hyundai Motorsport’s WRC programme over the
past twelve years and has reached numerous milestones with the team in that time. He scored his first
career win in Hyundai machinery at Rallye Deutschland in 2014 and has since gone on to amass 20
victories, 59 podiums and 371 stage wins behind the wheel of the team’s WRC challengers.
Having been a crucial element of Hyundai Motorsport’s two FIA WRC manufacturers’ crowns secured in
2019 and 2020, the Belgian is currently on the hunt for his first drivers’ honour. Neuville begins Acropolis
Rally with a 27-point lead in the standings with just four rounds remaining.
In 2025, Hyundai Motorsport will once again boast one of the strongest and most competitive driver
pairings in the WRC. Neuville and Tänak will spearhead the charge as the team once again challenges
for all three titles. The line-up plans for the third Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid car will be announced in
due course.
Hyundai Motorsport President and Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul said: “We are pleased to confirm
Thierry Neuville alongside Ott Tänak for our 2025 FIA World Rally Championship campaign. The decision
to maintain this competitive pairing at Hyundai Motorsport underscores our commitment to the series in
2025, where we will once again be targeting all three championship titles. Thierry has been with Hyundai
Motorsport since the very start, proving invaluable to the team both on the stages and in the factory over
the past 11 years. With him and his co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe now locked in for next season, we have all
of the ingredients needed to continue fighting at the very pinnacle of our sport.”
Thierry Neuville said: “I am very happy to extend my contract with Hyundai Motorsport for the 2025 FIA
World Rally Championship season. There are not many partnerships in motorsport that have spanned as
long as ours, but since 2014 we have achieved great success together. I’ve said before that this team has
become a second family to me, and our ambition and motivation has only grown year after year. It would
be a great honour to win our first drivers’ title with them at the end of this season, and to carry that forward
into a 12th year together. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us. ”

[Fast Eddie WRC]

No surprises there. The question is over the choice of a full-time third driver, or if they'll continue with rotating several and who they'll be.

[spyros]

If they leave at the end of 2025 or run by PH sport that means 1 only factory team. It will be the end of ours lovely wrc.

[rallyfiend]

If they leave at the end of 2025 or run by PH sport that means 1 only factory team. It will be the end of ours lovely wrc.

A lot of motorsport runs 'factory teams' through third-party operations. It's often common-sense business.

After all, even Hyundai's rumoured WEC programme for Genesis is likely to be run by a third party company.

Big companies are usually very bad / expensive at running small, nuanced operations....

[TypeR]

Such a BREAKING news and long PR story made up just to say that he continues next year..

Years of #teamNeuville discussions, it will soon be official after all :D :D

[focus206]

Neuville used to say that after this season, he would have liked a 2 year extension contract. The fact that he got only a one year extension could very well mean that works Hyundai won't be there after the end of next season.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Good summary and quotes in Autosport:

https://www.autosport.com/wrc/news/hyundais-2026-wrc-decision-likely-to-shape-neuvilles-long-term-future/10651295/

[AndersX]

I think many are tired and bored of this neverending Hyundai drama for years. Team, boss, mess with driver pool and young drivers, delayed decisions to develop and commit, top drivers in and out, new boss again, wrc commitment yes or no - this is more like PR disaster/dumpster than any type of long term brand awareness and trustfulness building. And i suspect it is very much related to how super traditional, heavy, vertical Korean corporate management system works. It was good, when all the world was slow in 50-80th, when the big break happened, but today, some approaches look outdated, not in sync with the modern world. And that has led to this never ending "drama queen" of our sport.

[becher]

Sort of off topic but Hyundai announced an LMDh programme:

https://www.dailysportscar.com/2024/09/12/genesis-to-enter-endurance-racings-top-class-with-lmdh-programme.html

Hopefully the Rally programme doesn't die thanks to this.

[deephouse]

They could switch places with Peugeot, since they're nowhere there

[becher]

They could switch places with Peugeot, since they're nowhere there

Stellantis/Peugeot are pretty set to stay for a while still. They got heavily screwed by BOP with their new car, wich is very different to the old one. Who knows the thing might come good by the next season.

[macebig]

If the 9x8 doesn't become a contender for wins in 2025, Peugeot will quit.

[Eli]

They could switch places with Peugeot, since they're nowhere there

Ahhh the 208 Rally1/ World Rally Car, it has a nice ring to it, just don’t bring Michel Nandan please, we tried that twice and it didn’t work out lol.

[saco0o]

LMDh is the car built on the "lmp2 based" spec chassis made by dallara, ligier and oreca, right? so its not a CAR made by hyundai. im not sure how that works but hey, since we keep saying "wrc should copy wec"

[deephouse]

Ahhh the 208 Rally1/ World Rally Car, it has a nice ring to it, just don’t bring Michel Nandan please, we tried that twice and it didn’t work out lol.

And that bloke Famin. Someone like Corrado should be. Someone who loves rallying.

[Eli]

And that bloke Famin. Someone like Corrado should be. Someone who loves rallying.

Bruno Famin, who previously was in charge of Peugeot Sport before he moved to Renault?

[becher]

Ahhh the 208 Rally1/ World Rally Car, it has a nice ring to it, just don’t bring Michel Nandan please, we tried that twice and it didn’t work out lol.
Hu? Wasn't Nandan also involved with the 206?
Who was Peugot Sports technical director at the time?

[becher]

LMDh is the car built on the "lmp2 based" spec chassis made by dallara, ligier and oreca, right? so its not a CAR made by hyundai. im not sure how that works but hey, since we keep saying "wrc should copy wec"
Yes LMP 2 tub (also from Multimatic) with a spec mgu by WAE and a engine from the manufacturer and bodywork with styling cues (although I suspect that a large part of the aero is done by the respective chassis manufacturer). And all current LMDh cars are run by contacted teams (similar to M Sport Ford, Ralliart Mitsubishi,...).

The proposal for 2027 was based on a spec chassis but that idea isn't certain any more I think.
I'm not sure how much cheaper the sport would be but I think a spec car devalues a top championship massively. The thing about WEC was very much the ROI and the simplicity to join, both those factors are not really there in rallying.

At least for me personally I don't take the LMDh very serious they are not really a Porsche, Cadillac, BMW,... but a LMP2 in drag with a hybrid drivetrain and similar power to the LMP2 from a few years ago.

[TWRC]

And that bloke Famin. Someone like Corrado should be. Someone who loves rallying.

Of course it's not going to happen, but it would be a great story if they came back with FX on the top and dominated again!

[Eli]

Of course it's not going to happen, but it would be a great story if they came back with FX on the top and dominated again!

Before you know it, DirtFish headlines: “With Peugeot dwindling in WEC, what are the chances they’ll be back in the WRC some 22 years after “the whale”? Lol

[deephouse]

Famin did express that at that time when he was in charge they weren't interested in rallying. I assume he wasn't souch into sport. Although they made 208 R5 and that thing still have one of the greatest sounds out of exaust for me personally.

That's why I believe that team boss or whole motorsport department should be someone with rallying history or passion.

I said some time ago that Cyril isn't with heart in this sport. Sorry but it's true. I know he doesn't have the last word, but pretty much does have influence since above them, people are really listening at key people down there. And as I predicted, that Hyundai would leave soon, this sceanario will probably come true. Sure he could convince them to stay, but I have a feeling it's more vice versa than that we are hoping for. Sadly.

And yes, Peugeot does have ultimatum in WEC. If wins will not come they will consider of leaving. Still think that they did best in rallying and is more appealing.

[Eli]

Famin did express that at that time when he was in charge they weren't interested in rallying. I assume he wasn't souch into sport. Although they made 208 R5 and that thing still have one of the greatest sounds out of exaust for me personally.

That's why I believe that team boss or whole motorsport department should be someone with rallying history or passion.

I said some time ago that Cyril isn't with heart in this sport. Sorry but it's true. I know he doesn't have the last word, but pretty much does have influence since above them, people are really listening at key people down there. And as I predicted, that Hyundai would leave soon, this sceanario will probably come true. Sure he could convince them to stay, but I have a feeling it's more vice versa than that we are hoping for. Sadly.

And yes, Peugeot does have ultimatum in WEC. If wins will not come they will consider of leaving. Still think that they did best in rallying and is more appealing.

And that 206 was a beautiful car, the 207 that followed may not have looked as pretty but the exhaust note was on point, as was the 208 R5’s like you said…In a world where almost nobody makes a 3 door supermini and most have reverted to a 5 door layout, would it be too much to ask from Peugeot to bring in their 208 into the mix and create a version for the 2027 rules & regulations?

[becher]

And yes, Peugeot does have ultimatum in WEC. If wins will not come they will consider of leaving. Still think that they did best in rallying and is more appealing.

Whats your source on this one? Sportscar journalists that are allmost always in the know specifically said that the clickbait shit "Peugeot will leave said Linda Jackson" is not what was actually said in that meeting.

[deephouse]

And that 206 was a beautiful car, the 207 that followed may not have looked as pretty but the exhaust note was on point, as was the 208 R5’s like you said…In a world where almost nobody makes a 3 door supermini and most have reverted to a 5 door layout, would it be too much to ask from Peugeot to bring in their 208 into the mix and create a version for the 2027 rules & regulations?

I think it would be awesome. The car does look badass even without all those aero packages.

[saco0o]

saw some people on fb talking about how os hyundai going from wrc to wec because "nobody watches wec". someone suggested "go check number of views on the official highlights from both series". man, wrc has around 90k per day, wec have up to 300k and even +400k on a full race at spa. i also thought wec was smaller. what a shock. last two years they also have decent numbers tbh.

[EstWRC]

Greece road book

https://youtu.be/wPw_ZV7Pyi0?si=Edtnim2HRPziRFS1

[Backa]

saw some people on fb talking about how os hyundai going from wrc to wec because "nobody watches wec". someone suggested "go check number of views on the official highlights from both series". man, wrc has around 90k per day, wec have up to 300k and even +400k on a full race at spa. i also thought wec was smaller. what a shock. last two years they also have decent numbers tbh.

Before I got rally.tv, I mostly check highlights on redbull.tv than on youtube. Not sure if it's that good comparision. Also WRC has twice as many rounds as WEC.

WRC youtube channel has more subscibers than WEC.

Looking at reddit, WRC is smaller than WEC, looking at instagram, WRC is bigger than WEC. It's quite hard to say.

At the end of day, WRC has potential to gain new fans and manus, similarly as WEC is doing that. If they will be able to realize that potential in next few years, is different question.

[saco0o]

this is weird... "hyundai will rumored to be run by american team chip ganassi using a oreca chassis in wec"
like, its just hyundai money and stickers? is that cheaper?

man im really thinking wrc should just go to spec cars and allowing manufacturers to change the "nose" of the car (headlights & front grill desing). the hybrid is already spec, the roll cage is basically spec (because they need to follow tight guidelines), the engines are already super tight on the construction.
just get someone to build a full simpler spec car and sell them to the teams and drivers, its going to be cheaper.
make it a crossoverISH thing since thats what the manufacturers want now. the puma is one of the coolest cars on the planet right now (tho the new car dont need all that exagerated [AWESOME] look with all the aerokit).

[saco0o]

WRC has twice as many rounds as WEC.
WRC youtube channel has more subscibers than WEC.
Looking at reddit, WRC is smaller than WEC, looking at instagram, WRC is bigger than WEC. It's quite hard to say.


hmmm but if wrc had only 8 round like wec, we would still get the same 80k average vs their 300k anyway.
or reverse: if wec had 14 round (like wrc), they'd probably get the same 300k average in all of them
like F1 or MotoGP have the same average of views for all of their 24 race season, nascar for their 36 races, or sprintcar have for their +80 race per season

yeah, social media numbers are weird, i honestly dont know how to work with that. motoGP was bigger than F1 up until 2022 or so, if you added twitter/fb/insta/youtube. i remember counting them all every year.

[becher]

this is weird... "hyundai will rumored to be run by american team chip ganassi using a oreca chassis in wec"
like, its just hyundai money and stickers? is that cheaper?


No, as I said it will be an Oreca tub with a Hyundai engine (roadcar based or prototype) with a spec mgu and Hyundai/Oreca designed bodywork (with some Genesis styling cues) and suspension.

All of them are currently run by third parties, only Toyota and Peugeot with their Hypercars are run inhouse factory teams (maybe Ferrari kind of as well with AF Corse).

[EstWRC]

Chile road book

https://youtu.be/AVYI5f3UA1s?si=NrQ16pJg0uUxqy1T

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Discontinued in Europe but the Hyundai i20N lives on in Australia:

https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2025-hyundai-i20-n-price-and-specs-hot-hatch-gets-freshened-styling

Strange when surely Europe was it's best market.

[deephouse]

Reducing their ranges, offer only EV and SUVs, ''forcing'' that those people will buy 3x more expensier cars. I will laugh if all they do will lose money and scratch their bright heads why.