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Rally Japan Set to Determine World Rally Championship Titles
The World Rally Championship (WRC) is gearing up for an exhilarating conclusion at the Rally Japan, where both the drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles remain fiercely contested. Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul has stated that driver Ott Tanak is poised to compete without restrictions, which could significantly impact the championship dynamics.
This weekend’s event will feature a high-stakes showdown between Tanak and fellow Hyundai teammate Thierry Neuville, who currently leads the championship standings by 25 points. Neuville, aiming for his first world title, only needs to secure six points in Japan to clinch the championship. This would mark a historic achievement for Hyundai, as it would be the first time the brand has secured a driver’s world title.
While Tanak faces an uphill battle to capture his second championship, Abiteboul affirmed that the drivers have been cleared to compete freely against one another. However, he also stressed the importance of maintaining Hyundai’s 15-point lead over Toyota in the manufacturers’ standings, which is crucial for claiming the team’s first constructors’ championship since 2020.
“Thierry has everything to lose, so he’ll likely approach the event with caution,” Abiteboul commented to Autosport. “In contrast, Ott has nothing to lose. I anticipate seeing him drive with that freedom, which will add an interesting layer to the competition.”
Neuville, aware of the pressure surrounding his lead, expressed confidence while recognizing the need for prudence. “The lead is comfortable, and the worst-case scenario is needing just six points,” he noted. “It’s essential to strike the right balance in Japan, especially with my teammate Andreas Mikkelsen also pushing hard for results.”
Tanak, though realistic about his chances, remains committed to giving his all during the rally. “We’ll do our best, but the current scoring system makes it challenging to make significant gains,” he remarked. While acknowledging that a retirement could shift the standings, he emphasized the shared responsibility of the team in the manufacturers’ championship. “We can’t focus solely on the drivers’ title; the team’s success is paramount.”
The Rally Japan promises to be a thrilling event as Neuville and Tanak navigate the asphalt stages, with both personal and team stakes riding on their performances. As the championship race heads into its final chapter, all eyes will be on the strategies and rivalries that unfold in Japan.
Source
www.autosport.com