P1racenews AI automatic summary:
After years of near-misses, including five frustrating runner-up finishes, Thierry Neuville could finally celebrate a first FIA World Rally Championship drivers’ title at the season-closing Rally J…
Thierry Neuville secured his first FIA World Rally Championship drivers’ title at the season-closing Rally Japan after years of near-misses and frustrating runner-up finishes. However, his Hyundai Motorsport team missed out on a WRC title double as Toyota Gazoo Racing clinched the manufacturers’ crown on the gripping final day of the season. The title was guaranteed for Neuville when his teammate Ott Tanak crashed out of the rally lead, giving him a 25-point cushion heading into the season finale. Neuville expressed his joy and gratitude for the hard work put in by the team, finally being rewarded for their efforts after many close calls. While Neuville celebrated his triumph, Toyota’s clutch performances on the final day secured them the WRC manufacturers’ title by a razor-thin margin of three points, denying Hyundai their chance at the double.
