Neuville has remained loyal to Hyundai’s WRC team since it joined the championship in 2014. He secured the team’s first WRC victory at Rally Germany in 2014, led them to their first manufacturers’ title in 2019, and became the first Hyundai driver to win the drivers’ championship in 2024.
Over the years, Hyundai has been surrounded by various rumours, but alarm bells started ringing during the last season. Around the time of the Acropolis Rally in late summer, speculation arose that Hyundai’s factory team might withdraw from the WRC after the 2025 season.
At the same time, Neuville signed a new contract with Hyundai, which raised eyebrows as it only guarantees his place through the 2025 season.
Recently, Hyundai announced the departure of Christian Loriaux, who had been overseeing the team’s WRC programme. This unexpected news reignited speculation about the team’s future in the championship.
Even Neuville admits uncertainty about what lies ahead.
“I recently signed a contract for two years with an option for 2026, in case Hyundai retires at the end of 2025. We will find out,” Neuville told RallyJournal.com.
Neuville has a clearer vision for his own future.
“I definitely would like to go until the end of 2026. I would also like to see Hyundai committing to the 2027 regulations and the new era of the WRC, because I believe that with all the changes coming, it will be a great platform for promotion for manufacturers like Hyundai,” Neuville said.
“But it’s not up to me. Nevertheless, I will continue fighting for it and try to support the brand as best I can.”
The FIA recently outlined the framework for the 2027 top-class cars, with the most notable change being a preliminary price cap of €345,000 per car.
Despite being an experienced driver, Neuville still sees plenty of years left in his career.
“But I’m not old either! I’m 36,” Neuville laughed.
“I won’t do this for ten more years – at least not in the WRC and not full time,” the Belgian emphasised.
