Hyundai’s World Rally Championship (WRC) team encountered significant issues with the anti-lag system during the recent Monte Carlo rally. These issues affected all three Hyundais, but Ott Tanak experienced the worst consequences due to his driving style. While Hyundai has identified the problem, a complete resolution may only be achieved through the homologation of new software, which they plan to implement in time for the next asphalt rally in Croatia. However, the team remains confident that the problem will not impact their performance in the upcoming snowy conditions of Rally Sweden.
Team principal Cyril Abiteboul acknowledged that Tanak’s driving style exacerbated the anti-lag system problem. It is important to note that this issue is not solely attributed to the driver’s actions but requires attention from Hyundai’s side. Although they have understood the problem, implementing a solution might necessitate the homologation of new software, which could not be accomplished before the Sweden rally. Abiteboul emphasized that the grip level on snow-covered roads in Sweden should minimize the impact of this issue, offering some relief for Tanak and the team.
Abiteboul believes that Kalle Rovanpera, the returning world champion, is the clear favorite for the Rally Sweden. However, he expressed confidence in Hyundai’s drivers, including Tanak, Thierry Neuville, and Esapekka Lappi, making his first start of the year. Abiteboul highlighted the team’s strong past performances on snow and Ott’s previous victories in the Sweden rally. He emphasized the importance of challenging Rovanpera while also considering the overall championship standings.
Thierry Neuville, the Monte Carlo rally winner and current championship leader, faces the disadvantage of starting first on the road for the Rally Sweden. Despite this challenge, he has set himself the target of achieving a podium finish. However, Neuville had a less-than-ideal pre-event test, encountering software issues that Abiteboul deemed insignificant. These issues prevented the team from fully optimizing their preparations and caused delays in testing new software features. Neuville remains optimistic but acknowledges the uncertainties of the upcoming rally conditions.
Hyundai’s WRC team continues to navigate their challenges with determination and resilience. While the anti-lag system issue has affected their performance, they have actively worked on understanding and addressing the problem. The team’s confidence remains intact, with a focus on overcoming the specific challenges of each rally and contending for victory. The upcoming Rally Sweden serves as an opportunity to showcase their strength on snow, with the aim of challenging Kalle Rovanpera and maintaining their position in the championship standings.
Hyundai’s WRC team has faced significant challenges with the anti-lag system, necessitating the identification and resolution of the problem. While the issue will likely require the homologation of new software, the team remains confident that the upcoming snowy conditions of Rally Sweden will not magnify the problem. With a determined and resilient approach, they aim to challenge the returning world champion, Kalle Rovanpera, and achieve podium finishes despite the challenges posed by starting positions and testing limitations. The Hyundai team’s determination and continuous efforts are indicative of their commitment to success in the World Rally Championship.
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