In a significant shift in motorsports strategy, Hyundai Motor is expected to withdraw from the World Rally Championship (WRC) by the end of 2025. According to Belgian automobile magazine AutoTrends, the South Korean automaker has already made the decision and will soon make an official announcement.
Hyundai to Pivot Toward Circuit Racing and WEC Participation
Hyundai’s departure from the WRC marks a strategic pivot toward circuit-based racing formats, particularly the World Endurance Championship (WEC) under its premium brand, Genesis. The move signals a broader transformation in Hyundai’s motorsport ambitions, prioritizing long-distance endurance racing over traditional rally formats.
Olivier de Wilde, a respected rally reporter, confirmed the shift, stating, “Hyundai Motor has already made such a decision, and there will be an official announcement soon.”
Industry Impact: Toyota May Dominate WRC
The potential exit of Hyundai from WRC raises concerns across the rally community. Industry experts warn that Hyundai’s withdrawal could solidify a “Toyota solo system”, leaving Toyota Gazoo Racing as the dominant force in the top class of WRC competition.
Without Hyundai, no other major manufacturer currently has the resources or competitiveness to challenge Toyota on equal footing, raising questions about the competitive balance and future appeal of the WRC.
FIA Considers Major Changes to WRC Structure
In response to potential instability, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is reportedly evaluating a transition of the WRC’s top category to Rally2-spec vehicles starting in 2026. Such a move would lower costs and enable greater participation from private teams using vehicles from manufacturers like Škoda and Citroën.
In fact, the FIA has already announced that by 2027, the cost of top-class WRC vehicles will be capped at €345,000(~₩550 million), and new technical regulations will bring them much closer to current Rally2 standards.
Hyundai’s Official Stance Still Pending
While speculation continues to grow, Cyril Abiteboul, head of Hyundai’s WRC team, stated, “We will decide the future direction of the team by the summer.” However, Hyundai has yet to release an official statement addressing the withdrawal rumors.
The upcoming Safari Rally this weekend may offer further insights, as motorsports enthusiasts and media closely monitor Hyundai’s communications and performance during the event.
