Hyundai’s luxury car brand Genesis will spearhead the effort, with a new race car named the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar. At the same time, Hyundai confirmed that Cyril Abiteboul, who has been the head of its WRC team since early 2023, will take charge of the Genesis Magma Racing team. Abiteboul also serves as the chairman of Hyundai Motorsport as a whole.
It’s possible that Abiteboul may step back, at least partially, from leading the rally team as early as next season. It remains unclear whether a replacement will be brought in for the rally division next year or if Abiteboul will juggle multiple projects simultaneously.
Earlier this autumn, speculation arose suggesting that Hyundai’s focus on circuit racing could signal a move away from competing as a full factory team in the WRC. However, Hyundai’s latest announcement offered no additional clarity on this matter. Timelines, however, might hint at changes to Hyundai’s rally project after the coming season.
“The official launch of Genesis Magma Racing is a momentous occasion.”As the backbone of Hyundai Motor Group’s global motorsport activities, Hyundai Motorsport will play a vital role in this latest ambitious program,” Abiteboul stated.
“We are elevating our circuit racing expertise to a whole new level as we prepare to compete in some of the world’s most challenging series.”
As early as next season, Logan Sargeant, who was dropped from Formula 1 this year, alongside Jamie Chadwick and Mathys Jaubert, will pilot the Genesis car in the European Le Mans Series.
The upcoming season will primarily involve testing, with seasoned drivers André Lotterer and Luis “Pipo” Derani, who have extensive experience in circuit racing, leading the car’s development. Hyundai plans to enter the Genesis car in the FIA-sanctioned WEC Championship in 2026. A year later, the car is expected to compete in the IMSA series in the United States.
