Toyota's Triumphant Return to American Rallying After 39 Years!
In a jaw-dropping comeback that has rally enthusiasts buzzing, Toyota has re-entered the American rally scene with a factory-supported vehicle—an event not witnessed since the iconic 1987 Olympus Rally. This monumental occasion marks nearly four decades since the legendary Björn Waldegård and Lars-Erik Torph last tore through the rugged Washington gravel roads in their Supras, leaving a lasting impression in the annals of motorsport history.
Fast forward to today, and we're witnessing a new chapter in Toyota's rally saga, featuring the electrifying Seth Quintero behind the wheel of the specially designed GR Corolla Rally RC2. This modern marvel is crafted by Toyota Gazoo Racing, showcasing the manufacturer’s commitment to precision performance on American soil. The last time Toyota sent its factory forces to compete in a stage rally in the U.S., it was an era defined by the raw power and brutal competition of Group B cars—an era that has since become the stuff of legends.
Back in the autumn of 1986, Toyota Team Europe made waves at the Group B finale during the Olympus Rally. The Celica Twin Cam Turbo, a purpose-built powerhouse, dominated the African stages, claiming victories in the treacherous Safari and Ivory Coast rallies. However, as the Group B spectacle drew to a close, the Celica struggled in the wet, wooded terrain of Washington, ultimately falling short against the formidable Group B supercars. Waldegård and Torph ended the event in fourth and fifth place, with performance hindered by the Celica’s lack of a front differential, a crucial disadvantage in a sport defined by grip and agility.
The transition from Group B to Group A left Toyota in a perplexing position, forcing the manufacturer to adapt quickly. Enter the Supra, which, despite its robust three-liter straight-six engine capable of nearly 300bhp, was not built for the rigors of rallying. An attempt to turbocharge the model for 1988 boosted its power to a staggering 400bhp, but the hefty Supra struggled to compete effectively. At the 1987 Olympus Rally, Toyota’s hopes were dimmed as the Supra cars fell prey to Lancia’s Delta HF 4WD, ultimately finishing in the middle of the pack, far from the podium.
With the Supra's disappointing performance, Toyota withdrew from American rallying, leaving a void that would not be filled until now. The absence of the Celica and Corolla from the U.S. rally scene is a tale of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential—until Toyota's bold return to Missouri for the 2026 ARA National Championship.
As the dust settles on this remarkable comeback, the excitement surrounding Toyota's rally resurgence is palpable. Fans are eager to witness whether the innovative GR Corolla Rally RC2 can reclaim Toyota's legacy in American rallying and ignite a new generation of rally enthusiasts. Welcome back, Toyota—your thrilling journey is just beginning!
