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Hyundai Gives Full Reins to Neuville and Tänak in Rally Japan Championship Showdown

Harry Stone by Harry Stone
November 15, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Hyundai Gives Full Reins to Neuville and Tänak in Rally Japan Championship Showdown

Thierry Neuville (BEL) and Martijn Wydaeghe (BEL) of team HYUNDAI SHELL MOBIS WORLD RALLY TEAM are seen performing during the World Rally Championship Portugal in Porto, Portugal on May 12, 2023. // Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202305121946 // Usage for editorial use only //

The stage is set for a thrilling finale at Rally Japan, as Hyundai drivers Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak have been given the green light to battle it out for the drivers’ championship, despite the team’s ongoing fight with Toyota for the manufacturers’ crown. In a rare move, Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul has decided to let the title contenders settle the score on the tarmac, prioritizing individual glory over team strategy.

“Neuville in Control, But Tänak Closing In”

Neuville has been a dominant force in the 2024 WRC season, leading the championship since his victory at the season-opening Monte Carlo Rally. However, his 25-point advantage has been steadily eroded by Tänak, who has delivered back-to-back strong performances in Chile and Central Europe. With just 30 points left on the table, the title remains mathematically open, though Neuville’s lead makes him the clear favorite.

The Belgian is also facing pressure from other rivals, including Toyota’s Elfyn Evans and even Sébastien Ogier, who has been surprisingly competitive despite a part-time schedule.

“Abiteboul: ‘It’s Up to Them'”

Speaking ahead of Rally Japan, Abiteboul clarified Hyundai’s stance: the drivers’ championship is the ultimate priority, and Neuville and Tänak will be allowed to race without team orders.

“It’s ultimately up to them,” Abiteboul stated. “The priority of the year was very clear: the drivers’ championship. That’s what’s missing in the history of Hyundai Motorsport, and it’s important not to change that priority at this stage of the season.”

Acknowledging Neuville’s cautious approach, Abiteboul added, “We know Thierry will be massively risk-averse. That’s why we need to build our strategy around that mindset.”

“Tänak: ‘It’s Not Up to Me’”

Despite his recent form, Tänak remains realistic about his chances. The Estonian ace admitted that Neuville has the upper hand going into Japan, calling the title “theoretically open, but not up to me.” His focus, instead, is on scoring maximum points to strengthen Hyundai’s fight for the manufacturers’ title against Toyota.

“For sure, for the manufacturers, we need to fight very hard,” Tänak said. “But the drivers’ championship… the only thing I can do is score as many points as possible in Japan.”

“Hyundai’s Balancing Act: Individual vs. Team Glory”

Hyundai’s decision to prioritize the drivers’ title over the manufacturers’ championship marks a calculated gamble. Winning the drivers’ championship would be a historic first for the team, adding a coveted accolade to its already impressive record. However, this strategy risks ceding ground to Toyota, which remains in contention for the manufacturers’ crown.

“What’s at Stake in Rally Japan”

  • Thierry Neuville: A cautious approach could secure him his maiden drivers’ title, but any slip-ups could open the door for Tänak.
  • Ott Tänak: With nothing to lose, he could push hard for maximum points, aiming to keep his title hopes alive while bolstering Hyundai’s manufacturers’ battle.
  • Toyota: With drivers like Elfyn Evans and Sébastien Ogier in the mix, the team will be looking to capitalize on any Hyundai missteps.

“A Fitting End to a Dramatic Season”

As the WRC season concludes in Japan, all eyes will be on Hyundai’s dynamic duo. Will Neuville cement his place in rallying history, or will Tänak pull off a dramatic upset? And how will Hyundai’s decision to let their drivers fight impact the manufacturers’ championship?

One thing is certain: Rally Japan promises high drama, fierce competition, and a fitting climax to an unforgettable season. All bets are off as the title hangs in the balance.

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