The escalating security crisis in the Middle East has now hit the World Rally Championship paddock head-on. Toyota and Hyundai have officially informed the FIA and WRC Promoter that they cannot travel to Saudi Arabia for the season-ending round.
The decision was confirmed in a joint letter to the FIA, outlining their stance amid the volatile situation. Jeddah, which was set to host the gravel event in November, is among the areas covered by company-wide travel restrictions.
Corporate Bans That Bind Factory Teams
Toyota Motor Corporation's internal policy prohibits all employees from traveling to the Middle East, and its rally team must comply. Hyundai has followed suit, leaving both teams with no choice but to withdraw from the final round.
Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala had already voiced his concerns a month ago, suggesting the event should be dropped. Now, the manufacturers' firm stance has intensified pressure on organizers to make a swift decision.
Saudi Rally's Fate to Be Decided Next Week
The FIA had previously promised a final decision on Rally Saudi Arabia by mid-September. However, the latest reports suggest an official announcement could come even sooner, possibly early next week.
The entry deadline for Rally Sardinia, which was slated as the penultimate round, has been extended to Monday, September 7. This move is seen as strategic, allowing all teams to know the fate of the Saudi round before committing to Sardinia.
If Rally Saudi Arabia is indeed cancelled, the season could conclude in Sardinia in early October, or be replaced by another event designated later. Fans and competitors alike now await clarity to determine how the title fight will unfold.
Baca Juga
Tommi Makinen memperingatkan era baru WRC berisiko meredupkan minat penggemar. Hanya Toyota yang siap dengan mobil baru, FIA ditekan soal arah regulasi.
Teemu Suninen di ambang gelar ERC di Wales, tapi harus menghadapi perlawanan sengit Kris Meeke. Akankah ia mengunci titel akhir pekan ini?
Rally Italia dihentikan setelah penonton tewas dalam kecelakaan fatal. Dua special stage batal, duka mendalam bagi keluarga korban.
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