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Toyota's dominance in the World Rally Championship faces a serious test as technical director Tom Fowler admits to feeling "nervous" about Hyundai's resurgence ahead of the gravel season.
Stay tuned to discover why this tension could reshape the championship race and what it means for both teams.
Toyota has showcased remarkable speed at the start of the season, with Sebastien Ogier potentially poised to secure six wins if not for a late puncture at Rally Portugal. That misfortune allowed Hyundai's Thierry Neuville to snatch their first victory, signaling a potential comeback for the Korean team on gravel.
While the i20 N Rally1 has struggled on tarmac, its prowess on loose surfaces is well-documented. As the season transitions to seven consecutive gravel events, Toyota knows complacency is not an option. Fowler highlights the challenge, noting Hyundai's historical strength in tough mid-season rallies.
With Hyundai having exhausted its homologation jokers for engine upgrades, Toyota retains one joker, ready to enhance the GR Yaris if needed. Fowler emphasizes the importance of staying ahead, stating, "You are sitting there at the front… with teams behind you holding a chisel." The pressure is on as the gravel season unfolds.
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