SEOUL, Nov. 25 (Korea Bizwire) – Hyundai Motor Company achieved a historic milestone at the 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC), securing its first-ever Driver and Co-Driver titles. The season concluded with the final round held from November 21 to 24 in Aichi and Gifu prefectures, Japan.
Thierry Neuville, driving the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid, delivered a steady performance to clinch the Driver’s Championship, marking a triumphant close to the season. This is the first time a Hyundai driver has claimed the top spot since the brand’s return to WRC in 2014.
Neuville, who previously finished third in the championship from 2021 to 2023, stood atop the podium six times this season to secure his career-first title. His co-driver, Martijn Wydaeghe, also earned the top spot in the Co-Driver standings.
“This victory represents years of hard work and perseverance,” said Neuville. “I’m incredibly grateful to the team, and I’m thrilled to finally see our efforts rewarded.”
The WRC, organized by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), has been the pinnacle of rally racing since its inception in 1973. Known for its diverse terrains and challenging conditions, the Japan Rally is particularly notorious for its narrow, winding asphalt roads in mountainous regions, which demand extraordinary skill.
Hyundai’s strong performance this season was not limited to individual accolades. The Hyundai World Rally Team earned 558 points overall, finishing second in the Manufacturers’ Championship, setting a promising tone for the next season.
Hyundai plans to build on this success, focusing on enhancing vehicle performance and furthering its contributions to motorsport culture. A company representative called the season “a monumental achievement,” adding, “We will strive to deliver even more thrilling performances for motorsport fans in the upcoming season.”
Image credit: Yonhap, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Communications Center / photonews@koreabizwire.com
