Often overlooked, however, is the pivotal role of the co-driver behind every successful rally driver. For the past four seasons, Martijn Wydaeghe has been reading notes for Neuville, taking over from Nicolas Gilsoul at the start of the 2021 season.
Neuville speaks highly of his teammate. Together, they achieved every rally driver’s ultimate dream: the WRC title.
“I owe Martijn a lot. He’s very dedicated and meticulous and a very positive person, which mirrors my mentality too,” Neuville said.
“I owe Martijn a lot. He’s very dedicated and meticulous and a very positive person, which mirrors my mentality too.”
For Neuville, the championship was the crowning achievement of a long career, and for his co-driver, it was no less significant.
“I owe Martijn a lot. He’s very dedicated and meticulous and a very positive person, which mirrors my mentality too,” Wydaeghe said.
“With the drivers’ and co-drivers’ championships decided, we were able to drive with a more open mindset and a good speed. A lot of Belgians came to Japan to cheer for us and my girlfriend was waiting for us at the finish line. You realise you’re not doing this alone; there is a lot of people around us experiencing the rollercoaster of emotions, and it was a magical moment to celebrate with them.”
Neuville and Wydaeghe won the season’s opening rally in Monte Carlo and led the championship throughout the year. However, the title didn’t come easily, as the season also brought its challenges.
“With the drivers’ and co-drivers’ championships decided, we were able to drive with a more open mindset and a good speed. A lot of Belgians came to Japan to cheer for us and my girlfriend was waiting for us at the finish line. You realise you’re not doing this alone; there is a lot of people around us experiencing the rollercoaster of emotions, and it was a magical moment to celebrate with them,” Wydaeghe reflected.
“But we were working hard to optimise everything and to have good Sundays. We were one of the crews that adapted best to the Super Sunday points system, which was really important this year.”
