Silly Season 2026

[Sulland]

How do you see the crews spread out for 2026?

1. Who do you see as most likely in each team?
2. Who would we see in each car if you could decide?

[EstWRC]

I’m quite sure Hyundai stays as it is. Don’t see any changes there

This has to be the final year of Munster. No progress at all. So I think Msport will be Sesks and Josh.

Toyota is a tough one now after Oliver’s performance. Does Ogier still continue? Do they still keep both Pajari and Katsuta?

[Peperoma]

1. Will we see more than 11-12 R1 cars on a regular basis?
2. Will we see the Lancia R2 at the regular premiere?

[CeskyOndra]

How do you see the crews spread out for 2026?

1. Who do you see as most likely in each team?
2. Who would we see in each car if you could decide?

1. not major changes, depends on some retirements (ogier totally, neuville and tanak part time?)

2. if i could decide, i would put all the guys in toyota or all the toyota's in hyundai. just want to see how Tanak and Neuville are great.

[meh]

Without any details:
* I would be surprised if Hyundai will have changes
* I would be surprised if Toyoa will NOT have changes
* M-Sport makes business decisions, and whether the "business decision" also drives fast is just a bonus

[Eli]

You forgot, Citroën comes back in ‘26 in order to prepare it’s new C3 for ‘27…names Rossel & Fourmaux as their drivers ;)

[spyros]

You forgot, Citroën comes back in ‘26 in order to prepare it’s new C3 for ‘27…names Rossel & Fourmaux as their drivers ;)

Didnt know that,is it true?

[bandit12]

Well.
*Hyunday remains as it is.
*Toyota: Evans out- Solberg in.
*M Sport: Evans plus McErlean.

[denkimi]

I suspect nothing changes.

Hyundai is too stupid to create a junior team.
M-sport is too poor to go without munster en mcerlean.
Toyota still needs ogier to secure the title, so the only change might be Pajari with solberg.

[Eli]

Didnt know that,is it true?

Just kidding, it’s more like wishful thinking..the chances of it happening are similar to seeing Wales Rally GB in 2027.

[focus206]

*Toyota: Evans out- Solberg in.


No way they'll get rid of a driver who led the championship until now.

[bandit12]

No way they'll get rid of a driver who led the championship until now.
They can't drop Pajari too - bad publicity.

[focus206]

They can't drop Pajari too - bad publicity.

Unless we get unlikely surprises (Ogier decides to retire, Kalle not doing full time because he doesn't like the car/tyres), I wonder if Monster or some other sponsor can help Toyota field +1 car for Solberg, while keeping all current drivers.

[trykmann]

They can't drop Pajari too - bad publicity.

Downgrade to Rally2 wouldn't be such a bad decision. Afterall they also want to compete for the Rally2 title in 2026. Currently they only have Solberg, who is able to potentially win the title.

About M-Sport. McErlean I understand has already done enough to keep his funding for next year. Unfortunately based on the current results I think it is difficult for Munster and Sesks to keep their sponsors for 2026. Maybe we will find them in a more competitive Rally2 machinery.

Also we should consider current Rally2 drivers, who maybe are able to do the next step. Rossel would be a good option for Rally1.

Hyundai probably will stay the same, but they could be in talks with drivers, whose contracts will end in 2025. For the manufacturers title Evans could be a more reliable option than Fourmaux.

[saco0o]

did hyundai confirmed they are staying? there was some talks about someone operating the team as a costumer squad, no? it came from belge this talk.
there was some smaaaall talk about rally1s being scrapped for 26 because 'hyundai were to leave and msport was broke $".

nothing on this? am i late on the infos?

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Kankkunen says Ogier will do some rallies in 2026 and then retire as he wont want to drive the new '27 Cars.

[AndyRAC]

They can't drop Pajari too - bad publicity.

Bad publicity dropping Pajari. Why? Where?? Oh let me guess, in Finland....... laughable....

[Morte66]

pfft

[bandit12]

Bad publicity dropping Pajari. Why? Where?? Oh let me guess, in Finland....... laughable....
Well. This is still sort on finland based team.

[CeskyOndra]

Well.
*Hyunday remains as it is.
*Toyota: Evans out- Solberg in.
*M Sport: Evans plus McErlean.

Evans to M-Sport is every year's wish and it will never happen.

["Username"]

Probably in 2026 Pajari and Solberg will swap seats from rally to rally. And if Pajari keeps underpeforming, Solberg will get the seat at the middle of the season.

[GigiGalliNo1]

Well. This is still sort on finland based team.

But seen from a Japanese perspective. Toyota Japan are the ones who get contracts organised and not the Finns. I can say that Katsuta's contract wasn't even done during the start of the final event last year IN Japan! Same with the other drivers...

[Managarium]

Probably in 2026 Pajari and Solberg will swap seats from rally to rally. And if Pajari keeps underpeforming, Solberg will get the seat at the middle of the season.

Is he underperforming or he has to slow down to let his Toyota buddies finish above him to score bigger points?
We have seen this season in many rallies Pajari and even Katsuta slowing down to let Evans and Rovanpera score more points, especially on sunday.

[deephouse]

But we never saw Ogier do that, right? Such a team player. No matter if he is placed high in championship standings. He is ''not'' (according to his words) going after the title.

[COD]

I suspect nothing changes.

Hyundai is too stupid to create a junior team.
M-sport is too poor to go without munster en mcerlean.
Toyota still needs ogier to secure the title, so the only change might be Pajari with solberg.

I suspect that Pajari has at least a 2y contract. The way he has been driving just to gain experience and not trying to fight indicates that he has a secure future

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Evans to M-Sport is every year's wish and it will never happen.

Millener talking up Evans' performance despite losing the WRC lead. Maybe he sees a possibility of a return to where he's still highly-rated...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/rival-team-boss-impressed-by-evans-recent-form/

[Managarium]

...and yet Evans is no longer sponsored by Red Bull, so, who will pay him?

[flat_right]

Kalle can't confirm whether he will compete a full season in the World Rally Championship next year.

"I can’t say it yet. It's up to a lot of things to do. Negotiations are about to start."

https://yle.fi/a/74-20174061

[Fast Eddie WRC]

...and yet Evans is no longer sponsored by Red Bull, so, who will pay him?

Malcolm would, as he has with his the other elite drivers he's had. Plus EE shouldn't be too expensive after he's earned well for years at Toyota.

[bandit12]

Malcolm would, as he has with his the other elite drivers he's had. Plus EE shouldn't be too expensive after he's earned well for years at Toyota.
In the other hand, why should he? Evans can't do miracles with that Puma...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

In the other hand, why should he? Evans can't do miracles with that Puma...

Well it's all assuming he is let go.by Toyota and there's no space at Hyundai.

Then it's a seat in a Rally1 Car and he brings a lot of experience and knowledge from Toyota which could help to develop the Puma.

[WRCStan]

In the other hand, why should he?

Because he's the FIA Deputy President for Sport. Apathy is not a good look.

[Steve Boyd]

Well it's all assuming he is let go.by Toyota and there's no space at Hyundai.

Then it's a seat in a Rally1 Car and he brings a lot of experience and knowledge from Toyota which could help to develop the Puma.Nah! He's going to Red Bull F1 to replace Max :)

[EstWRC]

Next years calendar https://www.wrc.com/en/news/2026-fia-world-rally-championship-calendar

So they listened to us and put a tarmac round in the middle of the season. Swapping Japan and Sardinia

[deephouse]

So USA fall short again.

[wwbroe]

Next years calendar https://www.wrc.com/en/news/2026-fia-world-rally-championship-calendar

So they listened to us and put a tarmac round in the middle of the season. Swapping Japan and Sardinia

As i understand it is not sure the Italian round will be Sardegna

[TypeR]

Sadly still no rally in USA..

[CeskyOndra]

Next years calendar https://www.wrc.com/en/news/2026-fia-world-rally-championship-calendar

So they listened to us and put a tarmac round in the middle of the season. Swapping Japan and Sardinia

Nothing improved. Why we have 4 tarmac events in the first 7 rounds? It is 6 gravel rounds to end the championship.. They should have kept one for the second half of the season

[Eli]

Sadly still no rally in USA..

Probably caused too many logistical challenges with Kenya, Chile, Paraguay and Japan.

[Eli]

Nothing improved. Why we have 4 tarmac events in the first 7 rounds? It is 6 gravel rounds to end the championship.. They should have kept one for the second half of the season
Perhaps they realised it’s too hard to have Chile,Paraguay, Japan & Saudi Arabia at the end…and I’m sure Canaries wouldn’t nudge to move to October…

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Nah! He's going to Red Bull F1 to replace Max :)

TBH there probably won't be any changes until 2027 and the new car regs. Maybe then the old guard will leave, not wanting to drive the Rally2 power cars after a decade of '17 Cars and Rally1's.

[deephouse]

Old guard never leave the field until no one show interest at them anymore.

[tbazsi95]

Hyundai confirmed the 2026 season in WRC.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DMxJ0ugo7fZ/

[TypeR]

Hyundai confirmed to race in 2026

[saco0o]

i remember the last info someone brought on the US round was that redbull was taking over the event's promotion themselves. that came out AFTER they said they were trying to sell the wrc promoter, which I found weird, but anyways...

can they keep the calendar if redbull sells the promoter in time? world rx had to cancel and change some dates when redbull left with a calendar in place

[Franky]

can they keep the calendar if redbull sells the promoter in time? world rx had to cancel and change some dates when redbull left with a calendar in place

It all depends on the contracts that are already in place

[Eli]

Is there any new regarding a new promoter? Seems to have all gone silent since last August.

[flat_right]

Thierry in Hyundai in 2026

https://rallyjournal.com/major-driver-deal-sealed-in-the-world-rally-championship/

[denkimi]

Thierry in Hyundai in 2026

https://rallyjournal.com/major-driver-deal-sealed-in-the-world-rally-championship/

great driver, but terribly stupid when choosing teams.

[wyler]

great driver, but terribly stupid when choosing teams.

don't think he had a real alternative this time...

[CeskyOndra]

great driver, but terribly stupid when choosing teams.

There is no room in Toyota, do you want to go with Ford?

[flat_right]

great driver, but terribly stupid when choosing teams.

Not a chance. That title belongs to Tänak.

[bandit12]

Not a chance. That title belongs to Tänak.
Sad but teie.

[bandit12]

Sad but teie. *true*

[EstWRC]

IMO Tänaks contract should also end with this year but no news so far from his side.

[flat_right]

IMO Tänaks contract should also end with this year but no news so far from his side.

There was some news that the talks will start or may already have started: https://www.rallit.fi/ott-tanak-puhui-tulevaisuudestaan-neuvottelut-ovat-kenties-jo-alkaneet/

[Dontcut]

What options does Tänak have? Back to low budget M-Sport with limited development and testing? I believe that TGR in ways doesn't want or need him.

[bandit12]

What options does Tänak have? Back to low budget M-Sport with limited development and testing? I believe that TGR in ways doesn't want or need him.

Hyundai or retirement.

[TypeR]

Or Renault-Dacia buys him over :D

[flat_right]

Or Renault-Dacia buys him over :D

It is 2026 we are talking about.

[TypeR]

Money talks and IF new team comes, they need someone to help build it.. Like Loeb and Al-Attiyah :D but it is very unlikely ofcourse.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Official confirmation of the Lancia Ypsilon Rally2:

https://www.media.stellantis.com/em-en/motorsport/press/the-whispers-are-true-the-new-lancia-ypsilon-rally2-hf-integrale-is-here

[spyros]

If it was me i'll take to drive Lappi and Paddon.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ott Tänak plotting a shock switch?

https://rallyjournal.com/ott-tanak-plotting-a-shock-switch/

[EstWRC]

Ott Tänak plotting a shock switch?

https://rallyjournal.com/ott-tanak-plotting-a-shock-switch/


Please be it true. Final year at Toyota. Perfect farewell

[macebig]

Unless both Ogier and Rovanpera leave Toyota, it's not happening. Nobody of the three will play second fiddle to the other.

[rallyfiend]

It’s more a question of whether Hyundai wants to keep him rather than it being his choice.

He is not popular in the team…..

[focus206]

It’s more a question of whether Hyundai wants to keep him rather than it being his choice.

He is not popular in the team…..

No way Hyundai will just send Tanak away, unless one among Kalle, Ogier and Evans will move to Hyundai...

[bandit12]

Tanak to Toyota? Never gonna happen.
He peed on teie well pretty badly.

[TypeR]

Tanak to Toyota? Never gonna happen.
He peed on teie well pretty badly.
And you know the peeing very well right :D
He has had good relations to Toyoda since then..
Toyota didn't send him away, but some time later they sent Makinen and his wife away..

He brought Toyota title, but for example Evans hasn't in 5 years..

We'll see.. hopefully some changes will happen to make series more imteresting :)

[Eli]

Ott Tänak plotting a shock switch?

https://rallyjournal.com/ott-tanak-plotting-a-shock-switch/

Before I opened the article my first thought was, “wait, what??? He’s going to Lancia???” Obviously not the case, will be nice to see him in Toyota colours again (and here’s hoping they won’t be the ugly ones we see now).

[flat_right]

Tanak to Toyota? Never gonna happen.
He peed on teie well pretty badly.

He peed on who badly? Sorry don't understand.

And just fyi, he had and still has a very good relationship with Toyoda who is the final boss here. And Makinen family, who he had issues with, is long gone. And still the first world champion with Yaris. I think there is and has to be some love.

Really hope this will be true.

[TypeR]

As is it silly season thread..

If Lancia is serious about their plans and want to enter main class in 2027.. Hire Tanak to build the car and bring interest in their project :D although Tanak wouldn't want to wast another/last competetive years building :D but never know, money can make difference :D

[spyros]

Lancia HF Integralle 2027
# Tanak # Lappi # Paddon.

[denkimi]

If anyone wants to start a new team, they must hire ogier.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

TBH the interpretation of this story is a bit click-baity. Just because Tanak says his future is open doesn't mean a team change is more likely.

Toyota has a settled team and even if one of them needs replacing there is Olivier Solberg to come in.

The more likely scenario is Tanak staying at Hyundai for another year and then retirement ahead of the new WRC2027 Cars appearance.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Lancia HF Integralle 2027
# Tanak # Lappi # Paddon.

Nice dream but its far from certain that Lancia will have a full factory WRC ream.

The new Rally2 Ypsilon isnt even homologated yet, let alone a WRC27 Car built to enter WRC1.

I think the Rally2 car will just make an entry in WRC2 in 2026 and see how it goes (& only run by private teams).

[trykmann]

I understand journalists want to write about something, but still it seems pointless to ask anything from the teams or drivers about next years contracts.

[bandit12]

He peed on who badly? Sorry don't understand
*Their* well. Autocorrect.
And to all fanboys: olge realistid!

[meh]

I guess Tänak is laughing at those journalists at the moment.

Although unlikely, it can also be used as a kind of pressure on Hyundai.

Conspiracy theorists can analyze Tänak's latest pictures on social media, congratulating Ogier for his 200th WRC start in the Toyota environment.

https://www.facebook.com/otttanakfanpage/posts/pfbid02Rvb4kxozCrHknsEaX6CxKLtALUF6HjpZ5kqNcsgrwxP pEznv6VJvHU1HsZPEPz8tl
https://x.com/TGR_WRC/status/1966285027895062677

[flat_right]

*Their* well. Autocorrect.
And to all fanboys: olge realistid!

We are "realistid" :D Who would have thought that Ott went to Hyundai in 2020? To Ford in 2023? So this would be the "Realistid" Triple ;)

[bandit12]

Yes, but Toyota does not need him.

[trykmann]

Yes, but Toyota does not need him.

It depends what Ogier or Rovanperä are doing next year.

[bandit12]

It depends what Ogier or Rovanperä are doing next year.

Then it's time to Solberg to shine...

[rallyfiend]

Yes, but Toyota does not need him.

Toyota seems a relatively stable, happy place.

I do not think they would want a disrupter like Tanak there.

[bandit12]

Toyota seems a relatively stable, happy place.

I do not think they would want a disrupter like Tanak there.

This!

[trykmann]

Then it's time to Solberg to shine...

This also has to be considered, that Toyota would like to be also competitive in Rally2. Without Solberg there isn't currently anyone driving Toyota Rally2, who could be able to drive for the title.

[rp]

This also has to be considered, that Toyota would like to be also competitive in Rally2. Without Solberg there isn't currently anyone driving Toyota Rally2, who could be able to drive for the title.

Pajari should be.

[deephouse]

Maybe Katsuta should try to be competitive there. There he could achieve more than he ever will be in WRC

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Toyota isnt a factory team in WRC2, Solberg is run by Printsport.

I'm sure a top WRC2 driver would be happy to take his place there. Moving from a Skoda or Citroen wasnt a problem for Solberg.

[trykmann]

Toyota isnt a factory team in WRC2, Solberg is run by Printsport.

I'm sure a top WRC2 driver would be happy to take his place there. Moving from a Skoda or Citroen wasnt a problem for Solberg.

We can consider Printsport as an unofficial factory team.

[BlueStrike]

I struggle to see where Toyota could fit Solberg in unless they expand their line-up again.

Evans and Rovanperä ought to be treated as safe, unless one of them quits voluntarily.

Pajari should be given a second year full-time.

Will Ogier be content to miss out on events again after what‘s shaping up to be a much better title chase than last year? He could retire completely, but I think that‘s unlikely.

Taka has his passport and outstanding speed on at least some events in his favour… maybe he goes part-time? As I said, he has events where he‘s great, and ones where he‘s a non-factor.

On the other hand, if everything stays as is that creates essentially a similar situation to this year, with four cars at minimum spoken for on most events, potentially five.

Meanwhile, Solberg is at least as deserving as Pajari of a full-time opportunity as Pajari was, and in my opinion even more so given his body of work this year. But do Toyota really want to stretch themselves to running six cars at some events?

I‘m discounting the Tänak "rumour" here, because as far as I could see there‘s no actual basis to that other than a surprisingly non-committal answer to what he’s doing in 2026. And as much as I‘d like to see him in a competent, affluent team after six years of hilarious incompetence and general suffering, IMO he’ll either be going farming/focusing on his kids‘ extracurriculars/enjoying family life or sticking it out with Hyundai for one more year (on the off-chance the car finally breaks less frequently than usual).

So the Solberg/Toyota situation has no obvious solution. The easiest/most rational one would be to let Katsuta go completely, but again… passport.

Could M-Sport be an option as a stop-gap, with an eye towards developing the 2027 car? I would assume that the Solbergs would want to see at least some guarantee of development money. Also, was the potential Red Bull/Monster conflict story from last year ever confirmed as being real?

As for Hyundai… I think hell would freeze over before that happened, given how that played out last time around and their own questions on the future.

[deephouse]

Katsuta isn't guaranteed in Toyota. Last year he admit, he was on thin line. I think that, if he will not show nothing special in last three rallies, or maybe less, he could be already replaced with Solberg. Unless if he somehow win a rally, but is highly unlikely. Even Japanese will have enough at some point. I think that his best chance would be stepping down in WRC2, making good ad for Rally2 car, try fighting for good results or even win some events or even title there, as he could achieve more and better results as he ever will in WRC. Next Pajari could share a car with Solberg, but we that would only create some competition between those two and could be worse as they would lack seat time both.

As regarding Tanak, I think that Toyota will not persuade him or bring him onboard. He should stay at Hyundai for one more year, then they will leave anyway. He could also start talking to other teams for 2027 and beyond. If some new team comes, he could be valuable for information, what not to do and how to not buld the car haha

[AndersX]

Why nobody considers Solberg and someone else running under Toyota Customer Team, created as training/testing/checking format for 2027 customer environment? Solberg needs seat time in that car, not wins directly.

[speederbee]

It'd be nice to see Solberg in a ralIy1 for a couple events next year, maybe sharing a car with Pajari. But I don't know that a full season in rally1 next year would even be the best move for Solberg or Pajari. Realistically it's not like either of them will be competing for the championship. If they both do a mix of events in rally1 and rally2 cars, maybe they'd be better prepared than the rest of the guys to adapt to the new cars in 2027

[TypeR]

No way Solberg should do rally2 events next year..
He has wrc rally win that tens and tens of drivers dream of.. he has been to big class, dropped from there to wrc2 for couple of years. Now wrc2 title to finish that era..

[macebig]

Toyota will not run more than 5 cars in 2026. Would think Ogier hangs it up or goes back to part time status (especially if he wins the title this year). Rovanpera may be tempted to try a different disciple. And I would guess if Evans loses the title again, there is nothing more for him in Toyota. So, Yaris seats could become available. Oliver gets one for sure.

[EstWRC]

I just hope there will be some shock movement or smth.

It’s been so boring for the last 6 years and no major movements. Especially the last two years

[B group]

A lot will depend on whether Ogier wins his 9th title or not.
If he doesn't, he will most likely end his career in perfection and leave the place open for Oliver.
If he wins, he will try to go for his 10th, "feeling the taste of blood".
In this case, Evans will most likely give up his place to Olli.

[bandit12]

Next season will be an internal battle at Toyota. M-Sport will probably direct its resources towards the 2027 car, leaving their drivers without updates or testing.
Hyundai is rolling through its last year, already becoming ridiculous. Minimal factory support, zero motivation from staff and drivers.
Sad.

[Eli]

Next season will be an internal battle at Toyota. M-Sport will probably direct its resources towards the 2027 car, leaving their drivers without updates or testing.
Hyundai is rolling through its last year, already becoming ridiculous. Minimal factory support, zero motivation from staff and drivers.
Sad.

Hyundai seem very keen to become the next Citroën and even they in their final year wracked up 3 wins with that C3….if Hyundai do retire at the end of ‘26 (which lets face it seems more and more likely) I do hope Lancia (& perhaps Dacia?) step up and we’ll get a Toyota vs Lancia Round 2 for those of us who weren’t around in the 80’s ;)

[Rallyper]

Why should Ogier try to win a 10th next year? His ego is big, but not that big.
Ogier- so Ogier leaving, with possible one or two guest appearances
Evans? - what is his insurance being at Toyota next year? He could have good options at MSport.
Katsuta - secures 2026, is my guess. Or swapped to WRC2 is season starts bad.
Kalle? - It´s only himself to decide or motivate what will happen.
Pajari - Forsure one more season secured.

To sum up:
Yes, Oliver has a place at Toyota Rally1 next year. The replacement can be in many ways.

[flat_right]

Why should Ogier try to win a 10th next year? His ego is big, but not that big.
Ogier- so Ogier leaving, with possible one or two guest appearances


I really don't know anyone who has bigger EGO in current WRC line up than him. And I bet if he gets 9, he needs just 1 more to be better than Loeb. And this has to motivate him because being better in total tiles than Loeb is something he surely wants. So I bet he will drive and will start again with half campaign and if he has a chance, he will do it.



Evans? - what is his insurance being at Toyota next year? He could have good options at MSport.


What? Guy has been leading the WRC the whole year. How is that not an insurance?



Katsuta - secures 2026, is my guess. Or swapped to WRC2 is season starts bad.


A better season than last year for sure but nothing special compared to 2022 for example. He had 80 points last year (and he didn't drive in Chilie). This year he has 94.



Kalle? - It´s only himself to decide or motivate what will happen.


Agree.



Pajari - Forsure one more season secured.


Let's hope so. Hasn't really done anything do be dropped but in my opinion he hasn't shown anything special also. With the car as good as Toyota, you'd expect better results and stage times. But he only got his 5th stage and 4th this year. 3 of them were from 2025 rally Finland and now in Chile



To sum up:
Yes, Oliver has a place at Toyota Rally1 next year. The replacement can be in many ways.

Difficult decision. Definitely should drive in Rally1.

[Rallyper]

Ogier has BIG ego, but he must one more year sacrifice all those private thing a man gets avare of, when groving up; family, business, old parents etz. (eg. passing his 40´s)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I would bet on Ogier going for 10 in the final year of Rally1 Cars and possibly doing it the same way, missing a couple of early events he dislikes.

As well as getting the record ahead of Loeb, he'll probably see that the competition will be weaker than this season with Hyundai fading away and his teammates already mentally beaten.

[Rallyper]

I would bet on Ogier going for 10 in the final year of Rally1 Cars and possibly doing it the same way, missing a couple of early events he dislikes.

As well as getting the record ahead of Loeb, he'll probably see that the competition will be weaker than this season with Hyundai fading away and his teammates already mentally beaten.

Well, let´s see what happens. One has to take notice of Oliver if he joins he might beat Ogier in every round. Sounds silly, but he already did once. And that might also affects Ogiers decision. :)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Well, let´s see what happens. One has to take notice of Oliver if he joins he might beat Ogier in every round. Sounds silly, but he already did once. And that might also affects Ogiers decision. :)

Anything is possible. Ogier could start the year uncommitted and see how Solberg goes (assuming he's in the team) before he decides on a full season.

Solberg would certainly be hungry, but is that enough to beat 9x WDC over a year ? I doubt it.

[pedro16]

Well, let´s see what happens. One has to take notice of Oliver if he joins he might beat Ogier in every round. Sounds silly, but he already did once. And that might also affects Ogiers decision. :)

When was that?
Ogier wasn't in Estonia this year. ;)

[Rallyper]

When was that?
Ogier wasn't in Estonia this year. ;)

Alright. My bad. Guess I was thinking of Kalle who also was a bit humiliated, head to head. However I do think Ogier will be challenged as never before by Oliver...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Alright. My bad. Guess I was thinking of Kalle who also was a bit humiliated, head to head. However I do think Ogier will be challenged as never before by Oliver...

It's a bit strong to extrapolate a WDC from one (amazing) win in Estonia.

Of course Solberg is much better, but it's a bit like all the hype about Sesks after his first Rally1 drives.

[Rallyper]

It's a bit strong to extrapolate a WDC from one (amazing) win in Estonia.

Of course Solberg is much better, but it's a bit like all the hype about Sesks after his first Rally1 drives.

Don´t agree. Which driver did you see have done like Oliver did, before? I´ve been in this game for more than five decades, so you must remind me.

[flat_right]

Don´t agree. Which driver did you see have done like Oliver did, before? I´ve been in this game for more than five decades, so you must remind me.

It was special for sure, but if we’re being completely honest…

Oliver Solberg: won his first WRC event on his 13th start with a WRC car
Esapekka Lappi: 4th outing
Sébastien Loeb: 10th outing
Juha Kankkunen: 8th outing

I don’t know the older history so from older times I don't know.

[WRCStan]

It was special for sure, but if we’re being completely honest…

Oliver Solberg: won his first WRC event on his 13th start with a WRC car
Esapekka Lappi: 4th outing
Sébastien Loeb: 10th outing
Juha Kankkunen: 8th outing

I don’t know the older history so from older times I don't know.

All of those also drove, but never won, in a Hyundai. Just saying.

I think Per has Swedish glasses on saying he can beat Ogier in every event next season, but agree he is a potential future champion. In fact, it was me and Per getting grief here for saying we'd pick him for Rally1 where budget was not an issue. I suppose everybody dishing that grief will credit stepping back to WRC2 helped him win Estonia.

[macebig]

The Accent was never a realistic challenger for a rally win and Juha was well past his prime in 2002.

[flat_right]

All of those also drove, but never won, in a Hyundai. Just saying.

I think Per has Swedish glasses on saying he can beat Ogier in every event next season, but agree he is a potential future champion. In fact, it was me and Per getting grief here for saying we'd pick him for Rally1 where budget was not an issue. I suppose everybody dishing that grief will credit stepping back to WRC2 helped him win Estonia.

WRC is all about experience. I really don’t think that if Oliver had joined Toyota in 2021, he would have won in fewer starts than he actually did. Kalle won in his 14th start, and I consider him slightly more talented than Oliver.

[WRCStan]

I really don’t think that if Oliver had joined Toyota in 2021, he would have won in fewer starts than he actually did.

Me neither, I don't think necessarily if he was driving for Toyota manufacturers in Estonia he would have won. It's all pointless comparisons.

[1988senna]

So any news about Ogier? will he compete in the last 3 event?

[Negaiss]

So any news about Ogier? will he compete in the last 3 event?

Yes, Yes. He said it already after Finland, that he is going for title and will compete in all remaining events. Except maybe if there are no chance after Japan, then in that case he wil not do Saudi probably.

[Rallyper]

All of those also drove, but never won, in a Hyundai. Just saying.

I think Per has Swedish glasses on saying he can beat Ogier in every event next season, but agree he is a potential future champion. In fact, it was me and Per getting grief here for saying we'd pick him for Rally1 where budget was not an issue. I suppose everybody dishing that grief will credit stepping back to WRC2 helped him win Estonia.

Well, that was a statement built on wrong memory, but with or without Swedish glasses, he will be a big challenge for any of the top drivers, even Ogier.

[EstWRC]

Interesting talk about Tänak and Toyota

https://www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/ott-tanakista-kiertaa-huima-huhu-puoli-ilmainen-mies/9222716

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Interesting talk about Tänak and Toyota

https://www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/ott-tanakista-kiertaa-huima-huhu-puoli-ilmainen-mies/9222716

Wishful thinking from the commentator.

But you never know what can happen at Toyota if Ogier retired and Rovanpera decides he's not enjoying his rallying...

[sti123]

Wishful thinking from the commentator.

But you never know what can happen at Toyota if Ogier retired and Rovanpera decides he's not enjoying his rallying...

Ogier, Tänak, Solberg in the main team, Katsuta and Pajari in the satellite one. Kalle will do other stuff- he's done with rallying. Also Evans is leaving and will end up at Hyundai. This is the dream I saw yesterday...

[Jewy46]

What about this:

Toyota employ 7 drivers all on different contracts ( I know it sounds crazy but hear me out)

Evans & Tanak on full time contracts which sees them do all rallies and nominated for points for the main team
Rovanpera & Ogier on fluid part time contracts which allows them to liaise with the team and more or less choose what events they want to compete in as the main teams 3rd driver

Solberg, Katsuta & Pajari all on contracts which sees them compete in the satellite team primarily (unless needed on main team) and possibly not doing all rounds but at least 10.

This could allow Toyota to bring 5 cars to all events and decide on which 5 drivers from the 7 available depending on what they/the driver wants.

Let's face it all of the drivers would be happy to stay at Toyota under this scenario given where they are performance wise compared to Hyundai.
The only flaw I see in it is if Rovanpera wants a full time role. To me this is not certain right now, I think he would be happy to just do the rounds he wants to.

Just a thought!

[deephouse]

Now we need only Adrien to start talking to them haha

If we draw the line by overall all drivers ranked in Toyota camp:
1.) Rovanpera (he have 2 titles with them)
2.) Ogier (usually part timer, but excelent)
3.) Evans (I think the most consistent in the team)
4.) Solberg (straight win first time driving Toyota)
5.) Pajari (Learner, he is showing some potential)
6.) Katsuta (after all this years he should be regular on podiums or at least very close to win event or two)

I don't know why all consider Tanak replacing Evans, Ogier or Rovanpera and nobody see Katsuta is the one who should be sacked. He doesn't bring any value to the team. If Pajari would screw 2 or 3 seasons, he would be probably out, but he is still learning while Katsuta isn't anymore.

[Krigen]

Now we need only Adrien to start talking to them haha

If we draw the line by overall all drivers ranked in Toyota camp:
1.) Rovanpera (he have 2 titles with them)
2.) Ogier (usually part timer, but excelent)
3.) Evans (I think the most consistent in the team)
4.) Solberg (straight win first time driving Toyota)
5.) Pajari (Learner, he is showing some potential)
6.) Katsuta (after all this years he should be regular on podiums or at least very close to win event or two)

I don't know why all consider Tanak replacing Evans, Ogier or Rovanpera and nobody see Katsuta is the one who should be sacked. He doesn't bring any value to the team. If Pajari would screw 2 or 3 seasons, he would be probably out, but he is still learning while Katsuta isn't anymore.

He is from Japan

[flat_right]

As sad as it might be for a Tänak fan, I really don't see him joining Toyota. There just isn't any seats available, rather vice versa. Where do you put Solberg? Part time with Ogier? I think as it will be the last year of Rally1 and from there, at least in the beginning, there is a speed and performance drop, all the drivers would like to drive this last year.

[bandit12]

A simple question: why does Toyota need Tänak?
A good setup man? Well, he didn’t succeed at that in Ford, nor in several years at Hyundai...
A good team player? Hardly..

[rallyfiend]

A simple question: why does Toyota need Tänak?
A good setup man? Well, he didn’t succeed at that in Ford, nor in several years at Hyundai...
A good team player? Hardly..

I can't imagine any scenario in which Tanak would bring benefit to Toyota.

He has probably started the rumour himself to try to pretend Hyundai should pay him money. He really doesn't have any options.

[EstWRC]

A simple question: why does Toyota need Tänak?
A good setup man? Well, he didn’t succeed at that in Ford, nor in several years at Hyundai...
A good team player? Hardly..

A simple answer: If Ogier and Kalle both do part time seasons again

[bandit12]

A simple answer: If Ogier and Kalle both do part time seasons again
Then it's Solberg's time to shine.

[trykmann]

Then it's Solberg's time to shine.

The win in Estonia was extraordinary, but still I think it's a bit optimistic to hope something special from the first season with Rally1 Yaris. He would be able to fight for rally wins, but driving for the title, starting first from the road and being good on all the events needs more experience. The overall level in Rally1 is just still one step above of the current Rally2.

[Rallyper]

There are three uncertainties named Rovanpera, Ogier and Evans.
Before we know where and what they go/will do there´s no idea of speculations.
If those three stay, there will be no Tanak, but at least one Solberg at the playlist...

[Fast Eddie WRC]

I think as it will be the last year of Rally1 and from there, at least in the beginning, there is a speed and performance drop, all the drivers would like to drive this last year.

Agreed.

So I think the 3 top Toyota guys will all want to continue in 2026. Solberg could share with or replace one of the others, but that's it for changes.

[wyler]

A simple answer: If Ogier and Kalle both do part time seasons again

there's no need. toyota will run alone next year...

[deephouse]

there's no need. toyota will run alone next year...

I do have a feeling also it will be the case.

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Timo Jouhki reveals major contract details about Kalle Rovanperä's next 2 seasons - if he does one he must do both and full-time...

https://rallyjournal.com/manager-reveals-major-contract-detail-about-kalle-rovanpera/

[trykmann]

Timo Jouhki reveals major contract details about Kalle Rovanperä's next 2 seasons - if he does one he must do both and full-time...

https://rallyjournal.com/manager-reveals-major-contract-detail-about-kalle-rovanpera/

Is the 2 year contract a requirement from Toyota? I would have imagined Kalle to be in such a position to decide what he wants to do or not. Or is it related to the development of the new car?

Jouhki himself obviously wants Kalle to continue and drive as much as possible.

[TypeR]

I believe after last year Toyota won't let these half-season jokes happen too much.. and finally they pay the salary. with Ogier it is a bit different story.. I bet that for some 8 reasons he can ask more things :D

[Rallyper]

Is the 2 year contract a requirement from Toyota? I would have imagined Kalle to be in such a position to decide what he wants to do or not. Or is it related to the development of the new car?

Jouhki himself obviously wants Kalle to continue and drive as much as possible.

Well, indeed he does. He probably still makes money from Kalles contracts. Nothing wrong with that. He invested in Kalle and wants his ROI.

[AndyRAC]

Timo Jouhki reveals major contract details about Kalle Rovanperä's next 2 seasons - if he does one he must do both and full-time...

https://rallyjournal.com/manager-reveals-major-contract-detail-about-kalle-rovanpera/

Why is he still hanging around like a bad smell........he's been a right pain in the arse for the sport; how many non Finns have lost out to a drive because of him?

[Rallyper]

Why is he still hanging around like a bad smell........he's been a right pain in the arse for the sport; how many non Finns have lost out to a drive because of him?

You need to turn it the other way around. How many finns would have been hirstoric icons without Jouhki?

[COD]

Why is he still hanging around like a bad smell........he's been a right pain in the arse for the sport; how many non Finns have lost out to a drive because of him?

Because he is doing his job very well

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Timo Jouhki reveals major contract details about Kalle Rovanperä's next 2 seasons - if he does one he must do both and full-time...

https://rallyjournal.com/manager-reveals-major-contract-detail-about-kalle-rovanpera/

Maybe this was the deciding factor in Kalle choosing to go now, otherwise he had to commit to another TWO full-time years.

[flat_right]

Maybe this was the deciding factor in Kalle choosing to go now, otherwise he had to commit to another TWO full-time years.

I think this would have been negotiable. Kalle saying that I can do last year with rally1 but won't want to do Rally2+ otherwise I would retire from rallying.

[flat_right]

So again he changed his mind? Just some time ago he said that in 2026 he won't do as much rallies as this year.

https://www.upload.ee/image/18710171/er.jpg

[EstWRC]

Of course he did.

He is clever as a fox and smart, he knows that Tänak and Neuville won’t stand a change against him with the Hyundai next year also and the title will be easy

Unless Tänak joins Toyota

[deephouse]

As silly as it is Ogier still competing but right now it crucial if he will be here for at least one more year. We didn't had so much and interesting competition for a decade. And with Kalle gone, we lost one of them. Neuville, Evans, Ogier, Tanak. I don't see any other competing for wins and the title straight away. Only Formaux did show some promise last year, but he dissapoint in that part completely, so I don't consider him besides them. That's why I think Ogier should stay for a while. We need him and the sport need him.

[fantastic.priit]

But when you see Ott out of the car. he is pretty happy and something's have change his overall beeing. Like something is changing. He knows something and probably i think he is going to toyota and thats make him happy and look cool.

[flykas]

So again he changed his mind? Just some time ago he said that in 2026 he won't do as much rallies as this year.

https://www.upload.ee/image/18710171/er.jpg

Maybe he means that his retirement wont be such shocking news as Kalle leaving the sport at such age.

[WRCStan]

We didn't had so much and interesting competition for a decade.

I'm sorry but what? :confused:

[Morte66]

If Rovanpera and Ogier both leave (or Ogier drops to truly half a season), I hope Tanak stays at Hyundai. Tanak in a Toyota would dominate everything and be boring. Tanak-in-a-Hyundai vs Evans-in-a-Toyota is a battle.

[Rallyper]

Hearing from my finnish friend Paavo that rumours says Toyota will announce their team news for 2026, in Japan coming round. Then we´ll see...

[EstWRC]

Nothing new there, they have announced right after Japanese rally for the last couple of years

[Rallyper]

Nothing new there, they have announced right after Japanese rally for the last couple of years

Yeah. I know. Still I didn´t tell what they´ll announce...

[TypeR]

Rumours say that Kankkunen will replace Pajari..

[rallyfiend]

Rumours say that Kankkunen will replace Pajari..

The bigger question is who is going to replace Kankkunen / Latvala, because apparently that is coming too.....

[EstWRC]

The bigger question is who is going to replace Kankkunen / Latvala, because apparently that is coming too.....

Seems they like the former Finnish world champions, Makinen was, Kankkunen, maybe Grönholm now?

[flat_right]

Yeah. I know. Still I didn´t tell what they´ll announce...

Do you know what they'll announce?

[deephouse]

Most probably:
-Toyota:
1. Evans
2. Katsuta
3. Pajari
4. Solberg
5. Ogier (''half season'')
Kankunnen (full time boss)
Latvala fully focus on his Celica

-Hyundai:
1. Neuville
2. Tanak
3. Fourmaux
Maybe Cyril get kicked in the butt

-M-Sport (have no clue, as all 3 drivers weren't performing well, but two of them are on learning stage)

[Rallyper]

Do you know what they'll announce?

Well, yeah partly. Like Kankkunen no full time boss... Maybe new team boss.

[Sal yet again]

Luckily there isnt even the remotest chance of another Japanese driver being promoted to one of Toyota's Rally 1 cars so that means Solberg should be a shoe in for at least half a season although its hard to see him not taking Kalle's place.

[EstWRC]

How it will go

-Toyota:
1. Evans
2. Katsuta
3. Pajari
4. Solberg
5. Ogier (selected rounds)

-Hyundai:
1. Neuville
2. Tanak
3. Fourmaux

-M-Sport
1. Josh
2. Sesks most probably but also maybe Rossel? Gryazin?
3. Jürgenson (some rounds i believe besides Rally2)

How i wish it would go

-Toyota:
1. Tänak
2. Katsuta
4. Solberg
5. Ogier (selected rounds)

-Hyundai:
1. Neuville
2. Evans
3. Fourmaux

-M-Sport
1. Josh
2. Pajari
3. Sesks
3. Jürgenson (some rounds for experience)

[Fast Eddie WRC]

Ogier backs Solberg for Toyota seat...

https://dirtfish.com/rally/wrc/ogier-backs-solberg-for-rovanperas-toyota-seat/

[deephouse]

M-Sport needs number 1 driver, which clearly nobody out of three currently driving Puma shouldn't be. Munster and potentialy McErlean got tough job at the team still learning, because it's always some pressure. I believe that he could do better if he was second driver and M-Sport would go with someone more experienced for number 1 seat. But it is what it is. As I said many times, maybe he could do a season in lower category to gain confidence, some speed and consistency and get back stronger, as many current drivers in WRC. There are so many drivers who could do the job and are sitting at home watching live coverage. Paddon, Meeke, Sordo, Mikkelsen, Lappi, maybe even Katsuta... I know there are some of them doing stuff but better be there than not being there at all.

[Typ85]

Meeke and Loeb sharing the 1st car at MSport would be mega! Sesks and McErlean full time...

[deephouse]

You know what would be even more mega. If each manufacturer would run old spec WRC cars alongside Rally1's. Toyota Corolla WRC, Hyundai Accent WRC and Ford Focus WRC with legend drivers behind. Imagine those cars beating those new ones. It would bring show and crowds at the stages

[focus206]

You know what would be even more mega. If each manufacturer would run old spec WRC cars alongside Rally1's. Toyota Corolla WRC, Hyundai Accent WRC and Ford Focus WRC with legend drivers behind. Imagine those cars beating those new ones. It would bring show and crowds at the stages

Apart from not seeing it happening in a million years, I'm pretty sure those early WRC cars, as much as I love them, would get destroyed even by today's Rally2 cars. Just like Group B cars would struggle against modern FWD rally cars.

[Rallyper]

You know what would be even more mega. If each manufacturer would run old spec WRC cars alongside Rally1's. Toyota Corolla WRC, Hyundai Accent WRC and Ford Focus WRC with legend drivers behind. Imagine those cars beating those new ones. It would bring show and crowds at the stages

Idea is good. But imagine the disappointment when realising todays youngsters beat legends all the time...

[spyros]

You know what would be even more mega. If each manufacturer would run old spec WRC cars alongside Rally1's. Toyota Corolla WRC, Hyundai Accent WRC and Ford Focus WRC with legend drivers behind. Imagine those cars beating those new ones. It would bring show and crowds at the stages
Best idea last 20 years.

[doubled1978]

Apart from not seeing it happening in a million years, I'm pretty sure those early WRC cars, as much as I love them, would get destroyed even by today's Rally2 cars. Just like Group B cars would struggle against modern FWD rally cars.

Yeah, they would get murdered by modern rally2 cars, especially the Accent which was crap even in period.
A Delta S4 with a sequential gearbox, decent brakes and modern suspension could be quite a thing though!

[saco0o]

-Toyota:
2. Katsuta


please, no! toyota gotta stop wasting this good seat in this championship

[deephouse]

please, no! toyota gotta stop wasting this good seat in this championship

If Kalle wouldn't retire, it's possible that Solberg could take his seat, but I think now he is not in danger. At least for another year.

[EstWRC]

You know what would be even more mega. If each manufacturer would run old spec WRC cars alongside Rally1's. Toyota Corolla WRC, Hyundai Accent WRC and Ford Focus WRC with legend drivers behind. Imagine those cars beating those new ones. It would bring show and crowds at the stages

Didn’t you just describe RallyLegend?

[Doon]

You know what would be even more mega. If each manufacturer would run old spec WRC cars alongside Rally1's. Toyota Corolla WRC, Hyundai Accent WRC and Ford Focus WRC with legend drivers behind. Imagine those cars beating those new ones. It would bring show and crowds at the stages

That era of WRC cars would never beat a Rally1 car. They'd be somewhere between Rally2 and Rally3 pace.

[EstWRC]

So there’s one Estonian indeed joining Toyota and it’s our young talent Jaspar Vaher who is joining the youth program.

[Indreksi]

https://ralli.ee/soome-meedia-eesti-autoralli-tulevikulootus-valiti-toyota-noorteprogrammi/

[trykmann]

So there’s one Estonian indeed joining Toyota and it’s our young talent Jaspar Vaher who is joining the youth program.

Rough translate from finnish media:

Finnish top rallying is experiencing setbacks at both the top and bottom. Toyota's Kalle Rovanperä announced that he would switch to rallying in formula one, and now Finnish promises have been ignored by the Japanese manufacturer's young driver training program.

According to information from Vauhtin Maailma, Toyota Gazoo WRT has selected Estonian Jaspar Vaher for its young driver training program. In practice, Toyota is helping Vaher advance in the lower classes of rallying.

18-year-old Vaher is the first non-Japanese driver in Toyota's junior program. Toyota tested young drivers in Europe, and there were also Finnish candidates. The Estonian beat out all the promising Finnish drivers in the selection, including Tuukka Kauppinen, who competed with Vaher in the European Junior Championship, where Vaher was fourth and Kauppinen fifth.

In the Italian championship, Vaher achieved better results than Kauppinen. Both drove Lancias for the MS Munaretto team.

Vaher's selection was announced in connection with the World Rally Championship in Japan.