Neuville could contest partial WRC season next year
Belgian driver Thierry Neuville says he might not compete in all WRC rounds in 2027, as Hyundai has decided not to build a new WRC27 car but instead focus on development of the existing Rally2 model.
Hyundai has confirmed that it will not build a WRC27-class car for the next season, instead focusing on developing the existing "i20 N Rally2" model. This decision has created uncertainty about the future of the World Rally Championship and the plans of one of its top drivers, Thierry Neuville.
Asked about his plans for 2027, the Belgian driver admitted he still doesn't know what his season will look like. "I could do a full season or a partial season. Right now I have no idea. Nobody knows what our plan will be for next year," Neuville said. He stressed that he is currently more focused on the second half of this season, as much can happen in 2027.
Neuville also pointed out that several important decisions from the championship side remain delayed. "There have been announcements, but we have waited a long time for them. We are still waiting for the direction of the WRC promoter, as a new promoter has just been approved," he said. He added that Hyundai management is working very closely with all stakeholders regarding the future, but no decision has been made yet. "One thing is clear – we will not have a Rally1 car. Everything beyond that is quite open, including regarding myself," Neuville revealed.
With 190 starts, Neuville is the fifth most experienced driver in WRC history. He admitted he is not sure whether competing in Rally2 in 2027 would motivate him. "That will depend on the opportunities available to me. I hope that once the WRC promoter's plans become clear, we will also have a much better understanding of the overall strategy," the Belgian driver said.
