Hyundai’s Future in World Rally Championship Uncertain: Will They Stay Beyond 2026?
Hyundai is stirring up the World Rally Championship scene with speculations about their presence in the sport beyond 2026. The automaker had hinted at a potential exit from WRC due to their plans to venture into the World Endurance Championship under the Genesis brand. This move had raised doubts about the future of Hyundai in rallying, with rumors suggesting the possible downgrade of the Rally1 category to Rally2 should Hyundai decide to depart before the end of the five-year cycle.
Despite expressing dissatisfaction with the 2027 WRC regulations, Hyundai’s president and WRC team principal, Cyril Abiteboul, remains hopeful about the brand’s continuity in the championship until 2026. Speaking at Rally Portugal and later at Rally Sardinia, Abiteboul shed light on the ongoing discussions within the Hyundai camp. He emphasized that the decision for 2026 participation aligns with the natural progression of events, hinting at a forthcoming confirmation from the team.
However, the cloud of uncertainty looms large over Hyundai’s potential involvement in WRC beyond 2026. Abiteboul reiterated concerns regarding the compatibility of the 2027 regulations with Hyundai’s objectives. The lack of progress in finalizing technical regulations for the upcoming 10-year cycle, aimed at attracting more teams and manufacturers through cost-effective measures, adds to the complexity of the situation.
Abiteboul highlighted the need for regulations that allow manufacturers to showcase relevant technology, expressing reservations about the current framework’s ability to meet Hyundai’s objectives. The prospect of WRC27 cars featuring internal combustion engines initially, with a shift towards alternative powertrains from 2028 onwards, further complicates the decision-making process for Hyundai.
As discussions with the FIA continue, Hyundai finds itself at a crossroads, torn between the desire to uphold its WRC legacy of over a decade and the necessity to align with regulations that resonate with its technological vision. Abiteboul’s remarks underscore the challenges faced by manufacturers in navigating the evolving landscape of motorsport regulations, hinting at a potential clash between the interests of car makers and tuners in the future of WRC.
With the fate of Hyundai’s long-term commitment to WRC hanging in the balance, the motorsport community awaits a definitive stance from the Korean manufacturer. Will Hyundai steer towards a future defined by innovation and relevance, or will the allure of alternative ventures steer them away from the rallying realm? Only time will tell as Hyundai grapples with the pivotal decision that could reshape its motorsport trajectory.
