The situation for Hyundai, which is leading the Manufacturers’ Championship, is still open. Ott Tänak, who moved to the team this season, will continue, but Thierry Neuville’s contract ends this season.
The situation for Esapekka Lappi, Dani Sordo, and Andreas Mikkelsen, who have alternated in the third car, is likewise still open.
“The most important thing at this point is, first of all, that Tänak has a contract with us for next season. We are very happy about that,” Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul told RallyJournal.com.
Tänak’s season has been full of bad luck. In Poland, he collided with a deer right at the start of the rally, and in Latvia, he hit an advertising banner. Nevertheless, Tänak has managed to stay in the championship fight, thanks to his impressive performances on Sundays. The Estonian has been the king of Super Sundays this season.
“No matter what has happened on Friday or Saturday, he has shown his determination on Sunday. We are very satisfied with that,” Abiteboul praised the Estonian.
Thierry Neuville has represented Hyundai since 2014. Over the years, he has become the face of the entire team.
“Thierry has a long history with Hyundai, and I believe he has not yet been able to show his full potential in terms of victories and championships. But let’s see what we can do this year. I believe there is more to come. I think we have a mutual desire to continue,” Abiteboul hinted.
Regarding the third car, Hyundai has not yet made any decisions.
“The situation regarding the third car is still very, very open,” Abiteboul said.
“I want to think a bit outside the box. What could bring continuity and what new things could we introduce? In my opinion, we can afford to wait and then make the best possible strategy for the third car,” Abiteboul concluded.
