Toyota, their arch-rival, has clinched victories in Portugal since 2019, making it a well-suited rally for the Japanese manufacturer. However, Hyundai’s team principal Cyril Abiteboul still hopes for a tight competition, as has been the case throughout the early season.
“We enter the fifth round of the season with a lot of positive momentum. Despite Croatia not going exactly as planned, we can still gather plenty of positives from across the weekend – including a podium finish,” Abiteboul summarizes.
Hyundai’s lineup for Portugal includes Thierry Neuville, Ott Tänak, and Spanish veteran Dani Sordo, who will be competing in his first rally of the season.
“We are happy to welcome Dani and Cándido (co-driver Carrera) back and we know how well they perform in Portugal. Having them in the car means we have plenty to anticipate this weekend,” Abiteboul says.
“Thierry and Martijn (co-driver Wydaeghe) are looking to extend their lead in the championship, so they will be going full force into the weekend in search of a clean drive and maximum points.”
Hyundai camp particularly expects a boost from Tänak, as he has had a dismal start to the year. However, achieving outstanding success in Portugal may be difficult, as Toyota fields two part-time drivers who aren’t focused on series points. Sebastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä have collectively won the rally seven times.
“Ott and Martin (co-driver Järveoja), we know they are looking forward to getting back to gravel and they can push the car here to score as many points as possible, similarly to how they operated in Croatia,” Abiteboul contemplates.
“Finishing on at least one of the podium steps would be an ideal end to the weekend to help us advance in all three championships, and a win is at the forefront of our minds.”
The Rally de Portugal kicks off with a spectator stage on Thursday evening. The event will feature a total of 22 special stages, covering approximately 337 kilometers.
