After years of relentless pursuit, Thierry Neuville and co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe have finally etched their names in the history books, clinching their first FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) drivers’ title at the FORUM8 Rally Japan. Adding to the drama, Toyota GAZOO Racing celebrated its eighth manufacturers’ crown after a weekend brimming with twists and turns.
A Long-Awaited Triumph
Neuville’s championship victory came in dramatic fashion early on Sunday when Hyundai team-mate Ott Tänak, the sole rival capable of challenging Neuville for the title, suffered a heartbreaking crash. Tänak’s Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid veered out of contention during the opening stage, instantly securing Neuville’s title with four stages left to run.
The Belgian driver’s journey to the crown was a rollercoaster, marked by a turbocharger failure on Friday that saw him plummet to 15th place. Undeterred, Neuville clawed his way back to a sixth-place finish, showcasing the resilience and determination that defined his season. His achievement marks the first WRC title not only for him and Wydaeghe but also for Belgium and Hyundai Motorsport after a decade of competing at rallying’s pinnacle.
Toyota Clinches Manufacturers’ Crown
While Neuville celebrated his personal triumph, Hyundai’s hopes of securing the manufacturers’ championship were dashed in a tense showdown. Toyota GAZOO Racing’s Sébastien Ogier, Takamoto Katsuta, and Elfyn Evans delivered crucial performances, particularly on the decisive Wolf Power Stage. Their efforts tipped the balance, ensuring Toyota’s eighth manufacturers’ title in the WRC.
Elfyn Evans shone brightest, taking overall victory in Japan and finishing ahead of Ogier, who secured second. Adrien Fourmaux rounded out the podium, underscoring a thrilling season finale.
A Season to Remember
This historic season finale in Japan encapsulated the drama, unpredictability, and heroics that define the WRC. Thierry Neuville’s maiden championship victory and Toyota’s collective triumph set a fittingly spectacular end to a captivating season.
For fans and teams alike, the 2024 WRC season will be remembered for its unforgettable battles, heroic comebacks, and crowning of new champions who have left an indelible mark on rallying history.
Source: FIA
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
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