The future of Teemu Suninen has finally been clarified as the reigning ERC champion decides against joining Project RallyOne for their highly anticipated WRC debut. Despite participating in testing sessions for the Belgian team's new machine, the Finn has opted to accept a more comprehensive contract offer from Skoda Motorsport for the upcoming season.
This development poses a significant challenge for Lionel Hansen, the project head currently coordinating the debut of two cars for the Rallye Monte-Carlo. While Skoda has not yet announced a new WRC27-class vehicle or a specific Rally2 kit for the Fabia RS Rally2, the stability offered by the manufacturer appears to have been the deciding factor for Suninen.
The situation now forces RallyOne to explore alternative options to partner with their development driver, Stephane Lefebvre. Hansen remains steadfast in his ideal plan to utilize his primary test drivers, both of whom have completed 2,500 kilometers of testing. "I do not think I could find anyone on the driver market who could drive faster than them in the car’s debut event," Hansen stated regarding the technical maturity of his current lineup.
Meanwhile, rally legend Sebastien Loeb, who also sampled the car during development, has ruled himself out of the Monte Carlo entry list. "They were testing near my home, and it is always nice to get to know a new car. I wanted to find out a little about what the new Rally1 car for the WRC is like, and now I had the opportunity to try it," the Frenchman explained following his test session.
The shortlist for the remaining seat at RallyOne continues to grow as the market intensifies. With names like Quentin Gilbert, Raphael Astier, Gus Greensmith, and Kris Meeke circulating, Hansen faces a strategic decision. While he acknowledges the potential need for a funded driver later in the campaign, his primary objective remains pure performance to ensure a successful maiden outing at the 2027 season opener.
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