TANAK EXPLAINS SHOCK HYUNDAI EXIT
Ott Tanak has spoken about his decision to leave Hyundai one season earlier than expected – a move that has sent shockwaves across the sport and blown the driver market wide open.
Tanak exercised his option to break his contract ahead of 2023 during a whirlwind Sunday night in Spain, citing personal reasons for his decision to quit the Germany-based squad. Next month’s Rally Japan will mark his final event with the team.
“This is a personal decision and one that I have taken with careful consideration and respect for the team,” said the 35-year-old, who joined Hyundai from Toyota for the 2020 season as the reigning World champion. “However, I feel that I am at a stage of my career where I need to embark on a new challenge.”
Hyundai must now fill not one but two vacancies alongside Thierry Neuville. Team boss Julien Moncet has stated he would replace the departing Oliver Solberg and Elliott Edmondson with an “experienced and consistent crew”. With Dani Sordo, who carshared with Solberg this season, reluctant to tackle a full campaign, a move for Craig Breen could transpire (see main story) with Northern Irishman Kris Meeke another option, according to service park speculation.