Hyundai Motorsport is gearing up for a potential game-changer in the World Rally Championship (WRC) as Cyril Abiteboul hints at the introduction of a fourth car by 2025. The team recently showcased an impressive performance in Portugal, reigniting hopes for a stronger season.
Abiteboul expressed satisfaction with Hyundai’s upgraded rally car’s performance in Portugal, following a disappointing outing in the Canary Islands. The team’s drivers Ott Tanak and Adrien Fourmaux showed great promise on the challenging gravel terrain, with Tanak dominating the stages before facing mechanical setbacks.
Despite the current lineup of three full-time entries for 2025, Abiteboul hinted at the possibility of adding a fourth car to the roster. This strategic move could potentially enhance Hyundai’s competitive edge in the championship, especially against rivals like Toyota, who have been fielding a larger number of cars in recent events.
The decision to introduce a fourth car is not set in stone, with Abiteboul emphasizing the need to assess the team’s competitiveness before committing to the expansion. He highlighted the importance of optimizing resources to ensure that adding another car would contribute positively to Hyundai’s performance in the long run.
Furthermore, Abiteboul did not rule out the inclusion of long-time Hyundai driver Dani Sordo in the lineup, potentially adding more experience and depth to the team. Sordo, who has been competing for Hyundai Portugal in the national championship, could bring valuable insights and skills to the WRC team if given the opportunity.
As Hyundai evaluates the feasibility of a fourth car and weighs the associated costs and benefits, fans and competitors alike are eagerly awaiting the team’s next move. With the potential to shake up the WRC grid, Hyundai’s strategic decisions could redefine the competitive landscape of the championship in the coming years.
