WRC, Sportrik Media - Hyundai Motorsport and its lead drivers endured a subdued start to the World Rally Championship season at Rally Monte Carlo, where a dominant Toyota performance was headlined by Oliver Solberg securing a commanding victory.
Hyundai’s best result at the season opener came from Adrien Fourmaux in fourth position, followed by reigning world champion Thierry Neuville in fifth. In contrast, Toyota Gazoo Racing set the early benchmark by controlling the event and underlining its competitive strength.
Fourmaux now heads to Rally Sweden with positive memories of the winter event around Umea, where he claimed his first-ever WRC podium two years ago, finishing third while driving for M-Sport Ford. That result remains a key milestone in the Frenchman’s WRC career.
Last season, Fourmaux led the rally for an extended period before extreme snow conditions ultimately derailed his bid for victory. The experience has shaped his approach for this year’s edition, with a clear focus on maintaining competitiveness through to the final stages rather than peaking early.
Drawing inspiration from Solberg’s breakthrough performance at Monte Carlo, Fourmaux believes the Toyota driver’s success has reinforced the idea that established frontrunners can be challenged under the right circumstances.
“It was great to see Oliver fighting,” Fourmaux said, according to the World Rally Championship website.
“He showed with the same car that Elfyn and Sebastien are not unbeatable. That’s a good thing.”
“Of course, I want to win, but we’ll see in the next rally.”
Solberg’s standout Monte Carlo victory came on French soil, adding further motivation for Fourmaux as the championship moves to Sweden. While Solberg is widely considered one of the strongest favourites on home snow, the Hyundai driver has made clear his intention to mount a serious challenge as he pursues his first WRC win.
“I’ve been fast in Sweden before and I like Sweden,” Fourmaux said.
“Oliver won in Monte Carlo, so I have to win in Sweden,” he added with a smile.
Rally Sweden, scheduled to take place from 12 to 15 February, is set to provide an early indication of whether Hyundai can close the gap to Toyota on snow, while also serving as a pivotal opportunity for Fourmaux to convert past promise into a landmark victory at the top level of the World Rally Championship.
Baca Juga
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