AutoGear
  • Latest News
  • AutoGear TV
  • Sustainable Mobility
  • Motorsports
    • Circuits
    • Rally
    • Rally raid
    • WEC
  • English
    • Português
    • Italiano
    • Français
    • Español
    • English
    • Deutsch
    • 日本語
  • STANDINGS
No Result
View All Result
AutoGear
  • Latest News
  • AutoGear TV
  • Sustainable Mobility
  • Motorsports
    • Circuits
    • Rally
    • Rally raid
    • WEC
  • English
    • Português
    • Italiano
    • Français
    • Español
    • English
    • Deutsch
    • 日本語
  • STANDINGS
No Result
View All Result
AutoGear

Ott Tanak’s Heartbreaking Rally Chile Retirement: A Strategic Gamble for WRC Super Sunday Points

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
September 13, 2025
in Motorsports, WRC
Reading Time: 2 mins read
0
Ott Tanak’s Heartbreaking Rally Chile Retirement: A Strategic Gamble for WRC Super Sunday Points

Ott Tänak (EST) Martin Järveoja (EST) of team HYUNDAI SHELL MOBIS WORLD RALLY TEAM are seen performing during the World Rally Championship Greece in Lamia, Greece on September 7, 2024 // Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202409070736 // Usage for editorial use only //

Ott Tanak’s Rally Chile Drama: A Calculated Retreat in Pursuit of Glory

In a shocking twist at Rally Chile, Ott Tanak has once again pulled his Hyundai i20 N Rally1 out of contention, leaving fans and competitors alike reeling. This strategic withdrawal comes on the heels of a harrowing engine failure that nearly derailed his championship ambitions. Just when it seemed like Tanak was poised for victory, leading the rally by nearly ten seconds, disaster struck on stage six.

The stakes couldn’t be higher for the 2019 World Champion, who entered the event trailing leader Elfyn Evans by 18 points. After a sleepless night and a turbocharged effort from his Hyundai team to swap in a spare engine, Tanak re-entered the race with renewed fervor. He dazzled spectators by clinching the first two stages on Saturday morning, showcasing his skill in the treacherous wet conditions that have become a hallmark of this year’s rally.

But the joy was short-lived. With the championship hanging in the balance, Tanak made the tough decision to retire from the rally for a second time before stage nine. “By regulation, you are allowed two engines per year,” Tanak explained. “This is actually also the engine which we had a problem with in Sweden, and it’s also not in a good shape. It was already getting on the limit in these two stages.”

The gamble? To preserve the integrity of his spare engine for the crucial Super Sunday stages where a maximum of 10 points could be earned. Tanak’s strategy reflects a deep understanding of the sport and the harsh realities of engine management. He remarked, “We try to save it for Super Sunday and hopefully it can take us through four stages.”

Despite the setback, Tanak remains resolute about his championship aspirations. “My title bid is not great after Friday’s engine failure,” he confessed, acknowledging the uphill battle he faces. “It will need a big change in the championship battle to keep my hopes alive.” The pressure is palpable, and the urgency is clear. “Let’s see what the situation is after this rally,” he added, indicating that his fight isn’t over yet.

Tanak isn’t one to lean on luck, asserting, “It has absolutely nothing to do with luck.” His focus remains on meticulous preparation and data analysis, reflecting a champion’s mindset even in the face of adversity. “You always try to keep everything from your side. Otherwise, there is no point in going to the rally,” he said, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the sport.

As the rally unfolds, all eyes will be on Tanak and his team. Will they emerge from this latest setback stronger than ever, or will the pressure of the championship prove too great? One thing is certain: Ott Tanak’s journey through Rally Chile is far from over, and the drama is only just beginning. Buckle up for Super Sunday, where every point will be a hard-fought battle in the quest for the World Rally Championship!

Tags: 2025-dakar-rally2025-world-rally-championshipElfyn Evanshyundai-bossott-tanak-2
Share212Tweet133Send

Related Posts

McLaren F1 faces critical setbacks during testing in Barcelona: will they recover in time?
Motorsports

McLaren F1 faces critical setbacks during testing in Barcelona: will they recover in time?

Title: McLaren Faces Testing Turmoil in Barcelona: Fuel System Woes Threaten 2026 F1 Ambitions! In a dramatic turn of events...

by James Taylor
January 30, 2026
Mercedes sends shockwaves through F1 paddock with dazzling Barcelona test performance
Motorsports

Mercedes sends shockwaves through F1 paddock with dazzling Barcelona test performance

Mercedes Sends Shockwaves Through F1 with Dominant Barcelona Test Performance In a jaw-dropping display that has left Formula 1 rivals...

by Redação
January 30, 2026
Mercedes makes thrilling comeback as exclusive F1 Safety Car provider for 2026 season
Motorsports

Mercedes makes thrilling comeback as exclusive F1 Safety Car provider for 2026 season

Mercedes-Benz is poised to reclaim its prestigious role as the exclusive provider of the Formula 1 Safety and Medical Cars...

by Redação
January 30, 2026
Charles Leclerc embraces thrilling challenge of revolutionary 2026 F1 cars: a driver’s perspective
Motorsports

Charles Leclerc embraces thrilling challenge of revolutionary 2026 F1 cars: a driver’s perspective

Charles Leclerc Raves About "Super Interesting" 2026 F1 Cars: A New Era of Racing Unfolds! In a striking revelation, Ferrari's...

by Redação
January 30, 2026

Recent News

McLaren F1 faces critical setbacks during testing in Barcelona: will they recover in time?

McLaren F1 faces critical setbacks during testing in Barcelona: will they recover in time?

January 30, 2026
Mercedes sends shockwaves through F1 paddock with dazzling Barcelona test performance

Mercedes sends shockwaves through F1 paddock with dazzling Barcelona test performance

January 30, 2026
Mercedes makes thrilling comeback as exclusive F1 Safety Car provider for 2026 season

Mercedes makes thrilling comeback as exclusive F1 Safety Car provider for 2026 season

January 30, 2026
Charles Leclerc embraces thrilling challenge of revolutionary 2026 F1 cars: a driver’s perspective

Charles Leclerc embraces thrilling challenge of revolutionary 2026 F1 cars: a driver’s perspective

January 30, 2026

Newsletter

  • PRIVACY POLICY
  • TECHNICAL INFORMATION
  • EDITORIAL STATUS
  • TERMS AND CONDITIONS

© 2023 AutoGear - Todos os direitos reservados AutoGear.

MSports Play Icon
MSports Play
The New streaming service
Download
×
No Result
View All Result
  • Latest News
  • AutoGear TV
  • Sustainable Mobility
  • Motorsports
    • Circuits
    • Rally
    • Rally raid
    • WEC
  • English
    • Português
    • Italiano
    • Français
    • Español
    • English
    • Deutsch
    • 日本語

© 2023 AutoGear - Todos os direitos reservados AutoGear.