Belgian website AutoTrends.be has reported that Hyundai could be leaving the World Rally Championship at the end of this season. According to their sources, Hyundai’s top management has already made the decision, and an official announcement is expected in the near future.
Read more: Shockwaves in the WRC: Hyundai to leave, top-class cars set for major changes?
Hyundai’s star driver, Ott Tänak, was of course aware of the rumours but was unable to comment much on the situation.
“Obviously, at the moment, so many things are fully open. And like I say, at this moment, it’s very difficult to give any real explanation, as I guess nobody inside even knows what’s coming soon,” Tänak said on Wednesday ahead of Safari Rally Kenya.
Tänak was then asked directly if he was concerned about his job for next season.
“I don’t know which team,” Tänak chuckled.
“At the moment, everything seems open. I think for the future, regulations are open, the teams are open, and I think it’s all open right now,” Tänak stated.
For now, what also remains uncertain is how the Safari Rally will treat the drivers over the coming days. However, what is clear is that Toyota’s Kalle Rovanperä set the fastest time in the morning’s shakedown stage, with Hyundai’s drivers close behind.
Tänak was third fastest, finishing 1.9 seconds behind Rovanperä.
“It’s demanding. It’s tough. But you come here already expecting a huge challenge for the weekend, I guess. With this kind of mindset, it may be easier to accept,” Tänak said.
Kenya’s challenges are well known, but this year’s rally could be even tougher than usual.
“Even the organisers struggled to find the route before the rally, and so did we. The roads are not really prepared, and a big part of them are on the fields. Then it’s difficult to find a way, with some huge stones hidden and more technical sections this year. So altogether, let’s say Safari is always demanding, but this year seems a bit extra,” Tänak predicted.
Safari Rally Kenya kicks off properly on Thursday with two special stages on the schedule.
