Lancia’s Grand Comeback: Meet the Dynamic Duo Set to Dominate WRC in 2026!
In an electrifying announcement that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, Lancia has officially revealed its highly anticipated driver line-up for its monumental return to the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2026. After years of absence, the iconic Italian manufacturer is making a comeback that promises to shake up the competition.
The revered brand, known for its unparalleled success with a staggering ten WRC manufacturers’ titles, has chosen two formidable competitors—Yohan Rossel and Nikolay Gryazin—to steer the all-new Ypsilon HF Integrale Rally2 in the WRC2 championship. This new vehicle, meticulously prepared by PH Sport, marks the flagship of Stellantis Motorsport’s WRC program, taking the reins from the Citroen C3 Rally2 car.
Setting the stage for what could be an explosive season, Lancia has set its sights on nothing less than victory against tough contenders like Skoda, Toyota, and Ford. Management has boldly stated their aim is to see one of their drivers clinch the WRC2 title in their inaugural season with the Ypsilon. With a driver roster that boasts significant experience and skill, this ambition seems well within reach.
Yohan Rossel, who has proven himself as an exceptional talent in the WRC2 arena, finished as the runner-up in the title race this past year, narrowly missing out to Oliver Solberg. With a remarkable history of finishing in the top four for four consecutive seasons and boasting eight WRC2 wins, Rossel’s transition from Citroen to Lancia is a move fueled by passion and ambition. “Discovering Lancia’s pedigree and listening to Miki Biasion, who compares Lancia to Ferrari, you immediately understand it is a brand that commands respect,” said Rossel. “I am therefore very proud to join Lancia with the same motivation I had at the start of my career. This new chapter will give real momentum to my career: a new manufacturer, great ambitions, and the desire to go even further with the project… to win.”
Nikolay Gryazin, his fellow teammate, has similarly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, finishing third in the championship for the last two seasons. The 28-year-old driver, who clinched three victories driving a Citroen C3 in 2024 before returning to Skoda this season, is equally enthusiastic about joining Lancia. “Lancia has an iconic history in rallying, and it is a tremendous honour for me to be part of this story. With the team, we share the same ambitions: to fight at the front, to keep improving every day, and to bring this legendary name back to its rightful place,” Gryazin declared. “I am highly motivated for the work ahead, from the very first test to the final stage of the season. I want to thank Team Lancia Corse HF for their trust, as well as my partners and fans for their continued support.”
As Lancia gears up for this thrilling resurgence, fans can expect at least eight WRC events on the calendar for 2026, with the action kicking off at the prestigious Monte Carlo season opener next month. The rallying world is abuzz with excitement as Lancia prepares to reclaim its legendary status and write a new chapter in its storied history. Will Rossel and Gryazin be the ones to lead this iconic brand back to glory? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—Lancia’s return is set to be a spectacular spectacle!
