One week before the legendary Monte Carlo Rally, Hyundai makes a strong comeback with the presentation of its new i20 N Rally1 for 2026. Get ready, as this rally car, which has already proven itself, is determined to take the lead after a tumultuous 2025 season. With a bold livery and revitalised ambitions, the Korean brand is ready to battle on the winding rally roads.
A strategic alignment for 2026
The Hyundai i20 N Rally1 will be driven by top teams this season: Thierry Neuville and Martijn Wydaeghe, as well as Adrien Fourmaux and Alexandre Coria, will take the wheel to defend the brand’s colours. Following Ott Tänak’s retirement, the third car will be shared between Dani Sordo and Caándido Carrera, Esapekka Lappi and Enni Mälkönen, not to mention Hayden Paddon and John Kennard, all ready to fight in various events.
A livery that speaks for itself
Visually, the new i20 N Rally1 does not go unnoticed. While Hyundai’s iconic blue and red shades are retained, the car now sports an asymmetric livery that pays homage to the circuits where the brand has excelled, notably the Nürburgring, a high point of automotive performance. This bold design is also a nod to the R&D centre in Namyang. Special liveries are also planned throughout the season, promising a colourful spectacle on the stages.
A forgettable 2025 season
After winning the title with Neuville in 2024, Hyundai faced turbulence in 2025. Against a relentless Toyota team, the brand could only secure two victories: one in Greece with Tänak and the other in Saudi Arabia with Neuville. A tough blow that pushed Hyundai to reintroduce the 2024 model for a few events, proving that the battle for the title was far from won.
Statements from the leaders
Cyril Abiteboul, the head of Hyundai Motorsport, displays unwavering determination: “We are coming back with more determination and competitiveness than ever. Last season was tough, but we learned a lot about our weaknesses and the adjustments needed to raise our game in 2026.” This combative tone sets the stage for a year where every point will count.
A clear objective: victory
Hyundai’s ambitions leave no room for doubt. “Once again, our goal is to win all three world titles this year. We are better positioned thanks to the maturity of the Evo car,” declares Abiteboul. An intensive testing programme has led to significant improvements to the car, and the team hopes these changes will pay off on the ground.
Exemplary teamwork
Andrew Wheatley, Hyundai’s sporting director, shares the same vision. “This year’s objective is clear: we must be in a position to compete for all three championships by the end of the year,” he specified. Thanks to ongoing efforts in design, engineering, and development, the team has managed to conduct no fewer than 16 test days between the end of the Saudi Arabian Rally and the start of the Monte Carlo Rally. “This is a team that knows how to win, and it is crucial to ensure consistent performance throughout the season,” he adds, emphasising the importance of unity within the team.
The Hyundai i20 N Rally1 2026
With all these ambitions and meticulous preparation, Hyundai is ready to write a new chapter in rally history. Enthusiasts of motorsport can expect an exciting season where adrenaline and performance will be at the forefront. Stay tuned to follow the exploits of the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 on roads around the world and see if the brand will manage to reclaim the summit.
