Neuville: I envy Tänak, as he decided to stay home this year

The recent Canary Islands Rally proved to be another trying event for the Hyundai World Rally Championship team, echoing the struggles of the previous year. Belgian driver Thierry Neuville, who became world champion for the first time in 2024, finished this rally in a disappointing sixth position. He openly confessed after the race that any hope of winning the world championship this year has evaporated, and he even expressed envy towards Ott Tänak, who opted out of driving for Hyundai at the end of last year.

Neuville's frustration was palpable as he admitted his Hyundai struggled to compete with the dominant Toyotas throughout the entire weekend. This lack of competitiveness is a significant concern for the team, especially given Neuville's status as a reigning world champion. The performance gap suggests deeper issues that need addressing if Hyundai aims to challenge for top honors in the remaining rallies.

From our perspective at Postimees, this rally underscores the intense competition in the WRC. While international coverage might focus on the technical aspects of the cars and driver rivalries, for us in Estonia, it's a reminder of the high stakes and the mental fortitude required at this level. Tänak's decision to step away from Hyundai, which Neuville now seems to understand, speaks volumes about the internal dynamics and challenges within teams. We watch these developments closely, understanding the pressure on drivers like Neuville and the strategic decisions that shape a season.

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I envy Ott Tänak, who decided to stay home this year.