Hyundai showcased a strong performance in Portugal, nudging Toyota in a fierce competition, indicating a return to its expected form after a setback in the Canary Islands. Despite this improvement, any decision on running a fourth car is currently postponed until the team is satisfied with their upgraded World Rally Championship car’s performance on gravel. Ott Tanak’s exceptional performance in the upgraded i20 N on loose surfaces marked an impressive display, leading for 15 stages and securing 12 wins. Although Tanak faced reliability issues, hindering a potential rally win, Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul expressed pride in the team’s efforts.
While Hyundai had considered the possibility of running a fourth car alongside their existing full-time entries, the decision remains pending. The team is assessing the balance between resources and optimal utilization, especially following the unexpected setbacks encountered in the Canary Islands. Abiteboul hinted at the potential addition of another Rally1 car, possibly for Dani Sordo, as Hyundai evaluates its strategic approach for the remainder of the season. The team is mindful of the competition posed by Toyota’s expanded lineup and the importance of maximizing resources for a competitive edge in the championship standings.
