Sordo Seen as Key Hyundai Weapon in WRC Fight

Dani Sordo is being viewed as an important figure in Hyundai Motorsport’s effort to close the gap to Toyota during the 2026 World Rally Championship season. Despite competing on a part-time basis, the Spanish veteran is said to be making a major impact both technically and mentally within the team.

Sordo returned to Hyundai’s Rally1 machinery at Rally Canary Islands and immediately delivered competitive pace. During several stages, the Spaniard was even the fastest Hyundai driver in the field.

However, according to Hyundai sporting director Andrew Wheatley, Sordo’s biggest contribution goes beyond outright results. His extensive experience is believed to provide fresh perspectives on car setup development while also boosting team morale.

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“He has brought fresh energy that the team really needed.”

“He also provides a different perspective when experimenting with car setup.”

Technically, Sordo’s driving style is widely recognised as extremely smooth and efficient, a valuable characteristic in the modern Rally1 era where balancing aerodynamics, tyre management, and hybrid power delivery is critical.

Wheatley also explained that Sordo initially needed time to readjust to the behaviour of the Rally1 car on asphalt after last competing extensively on that surface in 2023. Once adapted, however, his pace quickly became competitive again.

“His driving style is extremely smooth and efficient.”

“He brings positive energy into every team meeting.”

Hyundai continues to face a difficult season as it struggles to consistently match the pace of Toyota Gazoo Racing. Sordo’s presence is therefore seen as important in maintaining a positive internal atmosphere amid growing competitive pressure throughout the opening phase of 2026.

This season, Hyundai is rotating part-time drivers in its third Rally1 entry with Sordo joined by Esapekka Lappi and Hayden Paddon. Each driver is considered to bring different strengths to the team’s technical development programme.

“He has been doing work just as important as our other drivers this season.”

“He is helping us improve as much as possible.”

With demanding gravel rallies such as Portugal and Greece approaching on the WRC calendar, Sordo’s experience and technical approach are expected to remain valuable assets for Hyundai as it continues battling Toyota’s dominance.