Solberg already tried his wings in the top category of the World Rally Championship five years ago, but that opportunity undoubtedly came too early. The third-generation driver competing under the Swedish flag made mistakes and was shown the door by Hyundai.
Since then, Solberg has demonstrated his skills in the WRC2 category. He won the class last season in dominant fashion. In addition, he took overall victory at Rally Estonia, even though it was only his first time competing in a Toyota Rally1 car.
Solberg also secured the WRC2 title with Toyota machinery, so it came as no surprise that the Japanese manufacturer offered him a drive for the 2026 season behind the wheel of the GR Yaris Rally1. Solberg is not setting out to play the humble card.
“I always put a lot of pressure on myself, so the goals are always very high. But I don’t have any clear expectations of what the results are going to be. I just want to have a clear expectation of that. I want to do my job 110% and let me see how it goes,” Solberg sums up.
At the fast gravel Rally Estonia, Solberg showed that things work at least in high-speed events. The victory was sensational and came after an exceptionally strong performance. In Monte Carlo and tarmac rallies in general, however, Solberg may need to approach things a little more cautiously at first. Nevertheless, the Devoluy Rally in France in December provided Solberg with valuable experience.
“I know the car quite well now on gravel at least after winning Estonia. But now it´s tarmac where I need more experience. I had a great rally before Christmas feeling very good in the car. And now we’re just basically fine tuning the feeling, fine tuning the car to what I need. The feeling already is good and I’m very happy and enjoying myself a lot,” Solberg sums up.
“The sensation is incredible. I mean, especially on tarmac, you feel much bigger sensation and a much bigger difference between the Rally1 and Rally2. You can have so much more speed and it just brings me a very big smile to my face so I’m very happy.”
Overall, Solberg is full of joy. Returning to a Rally1 car is more than a dream come true. The 24-year-old driver is aiming for the very top, with the goal of one day becoming world champion.
“I feel on top of the world. It’s an incredible feeling. The dream is starting, the dream has come true. To be part of such a unique brand and such a great history in rallying and winning, that’s what I love. That’s what I’m here for. And that’s the dream,” Solberg grins, referring to his team.
