This week, Toyota and Hyundai’s WRC teams have been rigorously testing their Rally1 cars in the French Alps, ahead of the season-opening Rally Monte Carlo in two weeks.
Hyundai’s reigning world champion Thierry Neuville kicked off the team’s testing session on Wednesday, followed by Estonian star Tänak on Thursday, who took the wheel of the i20 N Rally1.
While Neuville enjoyed wintry conditions during his test day, Tänak faced wet roads. Rain fell steadily as Tänak pushed the Rally1 machine on a twisty asphalt course.
Watch videos of Tänak’s test day below!
Tänak has competed in the Rally Monte Carlo 11 times but has yet to claim victory in the iconic event. His best result was second place in 2018.
The years 2020–2022 were particularly tough for Tänak in France, as he failed to finish the rally in any of those attempts. The 2020 Monte Carlo opener is especially remembered for Tänak’s dramatic crash.
Last year, Tänak finished fourth in the season opener, two minutes behind his teammate Neuville, who took the win.
The Rally Monte Carlo will take place from 23–26 January.
