Short Description
After a challenging 2025 season, Hyundai aims for a comeback in the 2026 World Rally Championship, implementing key improvements to the i20 N for better performance.
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4 minutes
Main Article
In a bid to reclaim its competitive edge in the 2026 World Rally Championship (WRC), Hyundai has revamped its strategy following a lackluster 2025 season. The team experienced significant challenges last year, securing only two rally victories compared to Toyota’s impressive 12 wins. The primary issue stemmed from the new ‘Evo’ version of the i20 N, which struggled in varied conditions, particularly on asphalt. Hyundai faced the additional hurdle of adapting to a new control tire from Hankook, complicating performance consistency.
Technical advances, spearheaded by Hyundai’s sporting director, Andrew Wheatley, and technical director, Francois-Xavier Demaison, have been crucial. The team utilized two homologation jokers to modify the car’s gear ratios and enhance front-end stability. These improvements aim to expand the car’s operational window, making it more predictable and flexible under various conditions. This strategic focus addresses both driver feedback and competitive gaps highlighted during the previous season.
Hyundai’s offseason preparations included 16 intensive testing days, focusing on both the i20 N Rally1 and the Rally2 car. This dual approach helped drivers better understand tire performance ahead of the new regulations set to take effect in 2027. Moreover, the relocation of the team’s test base from Finland to France allows for improved access to diverse road conditions, providing a significant advantage for testing.
Drivers Thierry Neuville and Adrien Fourmaux expressed cautious optimism about the upcoming season. Neuville, who faced hurdles in adjusting to the previous year’s improvements, noted that while the car is more capable, achieving full confidence remains essential. “Driving fast is okay, but attacking is a different story,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of consistency. Meanwhile, Fourmaux highlighted significant advancements in managing the car’s stability, vital for navigating Monte Carlo’s tricky roads.
As Hyundai gears up to challenge rival teams like Toyota, the focus on significant engineering advancements represents a renewed commitment to success in the WRC. With a robust development strategy and proactive driver involvement, Hyundai aims to potentially reclaim its title in the fiercely competitive arena of rally racing.
Short Summary
Hyundai is determined to bounce back in the 2026 WRC season, implementing critical upgrades to the i20 N for enhanced performance. With a focus on stability and reliability, the team hopes to regain its competitive edge against formidable rivals like Toyota. The combined efforts of the technical team and driver feedback lay a solid foundation for improving results this season.
