Toyota stays vigilant as Hyundai makes a comeback in rally events

Toyota is showing signs of nerves in the face of Hyundai's growing threat in the World Rally Championship. Despite dominating the 2026 season so far, their team director, Tom Fowler, admits that the team cannot afford to relax. The Japanese squad has had a strong start, but a puncture from Sébastien Ogier at the Rally of Portugal allowed Hyundai and Thierry Neuville to take their first victory.

The Hyundai i20 N Rally1 has faced challenges on asphalt, but its performance on gravel is noteworthy. With seven consecutive gravel rallies ahead after the event in Japan, Toyota knows that the title fight is far from over. Fowler points out that Hyundai has been strong in off-road tests, especially in difficult conditions.

The pressure is intense. Toyota is dealing with the uncertainty of maintaining its lead while facing a rival that has used all its homologation wildcards, while they still have one left to play. Fowler describes the situation as "uncomfortable," where the key will be to prevent Hyundai from closing the gap. The championship battle is heating up, and the outcome could change at any moment.