Tänak announced via social media that he will step away from full-time rallying after the current season. The 2019 world champion joined Hyundai for the 2020 season and has represented the team ever since, except for 2023, when he spent a year with M-Sport Ford.
With Hyundai, Tänak has achieved one manufacturers’ championship, eight rally wins, and 28 podium finishes. This season has been a struggle both for Tänak and for the entire Hyundai team.
Tänak claimed Hyundai’s only victory of the season in Greece in June, while Toyota has won all the other 13 rounds. He explained his decision by citing his family, saying he wants to spend more time with them in the future. However, the Estonian did not rule out a possible return to the World Rally Championship.
“While we were sad to learn of Ott’s decision, we naturally understand his motivation to step away from full-time rallying. We have achieved a lot together across two very successful eras – from that first electrifying win in Estonia to the 2020 manufacturers’ title, as well as eight victories and many podiums,” said Hyundai Motorsport President Cyril Abiteboul.
“For all the highs we have celebrated together, there have also been some lows, yet Ott has always remained fully committed.”
Although Tänak has often voiced strong criticism of his car and Hyundai’s operations, the Estonian has, in all honesty, left a lasting mark on the Korean team.
“He is one of the finest rally drivers in the world and remains a force to be reckoned with; when he has all the right ingredients, he is unstoppable. Ott has been a true inspiration on and off the stages, and we thank him for his contributions to the success of our team,” told Abiteboul.
“It may be the second time we are parting ways, but Ott remains part of the Hyundai family. Thank you, Ott – we hope we meet again one day.”
Hyundai announced that it will reveal its driver line-up for next season soon. Rival team Toyota will hold its press conference regarding next year on Monday morning in Japan.
