Paraguay became the stage for Hyundai's resurgence as two of its cars finished on the podium, led by stand-in driver Hayden Paddon in second place. Adrien Fourmaux completed the double podium after moving up to third on the final day of the rally. The result is more than just points – it signals that Hyundai is finally finding the rhythm they have been chasing.
Cyril Wheatley, team principal, stressed that although road surface and weather conditions will differ in Chile, his team has everything needed to carry that momentum forward. "We expect cooler temperatures and significant rainfall in the region over recent weeks. The profile and construction of the roads are different, but the basic principle is the same: medium-fast and fast gravel with more camber and elevation changes," he said.
What makes the situation even more intense: five Toyota drivers are now fighting for overall victory, while six drivers have won rounds in 2026. "Reaching the podium will be every bit as difficult, and success will have to be earned," Wheatley added. It is a subtle warning that Hyundai will not hand over the stage so easily.
Hyundai's key discovery in Paraguay came from conditions that did not evolve as forecast. "One of the biggest questions throughout the event was when the rain would arrive. Friday was expected to be dry, with rain from Saturday morning. In the end, the stages remained mostly dry," Wheatley explained. Instead of being a setback, it gave Hyundai a rare chance to try options that would not normally be relevant in those conditions.
The team also tested a more radical setup on Thierry Neuville's car. The Belgian retired from the rally on Friday but returned on Saturday. "That helped us confirm some details and gave us confidence that the latest updates have broadened the car's operating window. That is very positive for the events ahead," Wheatley said.
Looking to Chile, Wheatley predicts another rally where the lead could change hands several times. "It is a rally where consistent pace is rewarded. Our biggest advantage heading to Chile is that our car has been extremely reliable in 2026. We know it is a strong car when conditions become difficult. I am confident that we have three crews capable of fighting for podium places," he concluded. Rally Chile takes place from 10–13 September.
Read Also
Tom Fowler issues ultimatum: WRC must change sporting rules to eliminate road position advantage equivalent to 100 horsepower. Full analysis inside.
Safari Rally Kenya is at risk of losing its WRC spot for 2027 due to a funding crisis. The promoter has issued an ultimatum, will this legend survive?
Tommi Makinen warns the new WRC era risks losing fan interest. Only Toyota is committed to new cars, putting pressure on FIA's regulation path.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!