The reigning world champion has confirmed that he will continue as a Hyundai driver through to the 2026 season. Neuville revealed the news to Belgian news agency Belga.
Neuville first signed with Hyundai in 2014, making next year his 13th season behind the wheel for the Korean manufacturer.
“The option was there, and now that Hyundai has confirmed that they will also be competing in the World Championship next year, I will remain loyal and drive a full season for them,” Neuville told Belga.
Hyundai’s future in the WRC had long been uncertain, but the team finally confirmed at the end of July, just before Rally Finland, that it will stay in the championship at least until 2026.
However, Hyundai has not yet announced whether it intends to remain in the series in 2027, when new technical regulations and cars will be introduced in the top class. That uncertainty also leaves Neuville’s long-term plans open.
“I don’t want to look beyond next year. 2027 is still a long way off, and at the same time it isn’t. It doesn’t just depend on Hyundai, but also on the promoter, the FIA and whether other manufacturers join. I’m not thinking about that yet,” the Belgian star said.
The 2027 regulation changes are designed to attract more manufacturers and teams to the WRC’s premier category. Of the current line-up, only Toyota has so far confirmed it is developing a new car for 2027.
Neuville is the first Hyundai driver to confirm his continuation with the team. His fellow superstar Ott Tänak said during Rally Finland that he is starting talks with Hyundai about his own future.
Read more: Ott Tänak spoke about his future – negotiations may already have begun
Adrien Fourmaux has been driving as Hyundai’s third driver this season. His current contract runs only through this year.
