As the World Rally Championship season finale reaches its climax, Thierry Neuville is openly relieved to see the back of a grueling campaign. The 2024 world champion's difficult year with Hyundai came to an abrupt halt on Saturday afternoon after a costly mistake in Sardinia sent him crashing into a tree.
The weekend had begun with genuine promise as the Belgian driver overnighted in the rally lead by 0.4 seconds ahead of team-mate Adrien Fourmaux. However, title contender Oliver Solberg managed to snatch the top spot away by Saturday's midday service.
Starting the afternoon loop just 2.7 seconds adrift, Neuville's charge lasted barely a kilometer into SS11. A brush with an inside stone prompted a sudden steering correction that snapped the rear end of his car straight into disaster.
"The plan obviously was to fight with Oliver and bring home a victory for Hyundai," reflected Neuville, whose immediate retirement followed the impact that ripped off his wheel. The incident capped off a turbulent season plagued by internal struggles and a violent prior crash in Chile.
Despite the disappointment, Neuville aims to restart under Sunday regulations to secure a finish and support the team. After months of wrestling his natural rhythm, closing the chapter on this demanding year is a welcome relief.
Baca Juga
Jari-Matti Latvala ungkap perubahan internal di tim Toyota jelang penentuan gelar juara WRC di Sardinia antara Elfyn Evans dan para rival ketatnya.
Oliver Solberg jaga asa juara WRC di Rally Sardinia namun kecewa pada insiden Hyundai yang untungkan rival perebutan gelar.
Thierry Neuville menyambut akhir musim WRC 2026 dengan lega usai mengalami kecelakaan di Sardinia yang menghentikan perjuangannya bersama Hyundai.
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