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Hyundai's World Rally Championship season could pivot dramatically at the Rally Portugal, the first pure gravel event of 2026. This rally is crucial for Hyundai, which has struggled to find speed in the i20 N Rally1, particularly on asphalt surfaces where it faces stiff competition from Toyota, which has dominated the early rounds this season.
The team welcomes the gravel conditions of Portugal, where pre-event testing has sparked optimism among drivers, including Adrien Fourmaux and Thierry Neuville. Fourmaux states, “The season really starts now in Portugal,” highlighting the distinct nature of the rally compared to previous events. He aims for a strong performance, motivated by past challenges and the enthusiastic local fans.
Neuville shares a cautious optimism, acknowledging the competition's strength but feeling positive about the team's testing results. Last year, Hyundai showed promise in Portugal, with both drivers on track for victory before technical issues thwarted their chances.
With Dani Sordo stepping in for Ott Tanak, and sporting director Andrew Wheatley indicating the team has “more ambitious” targets, Hyundai looks to capitalize on this pivotal moment in their campaign. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown in Portugal, where Hyundai aims to reclaim its competitive edge.
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