Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota GAZOO Racing, has praised the fierce competition and mutual respect between Toyota and Hyundai throughout the 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC) season. In a statement filled with admiration and sportsmanship, Toyoda acknowledged the intense rivalry and expressed his excitement for continuing the battle in 2025.
The 2024 WRC season delivered a thrilling narrative, with the championships split between the two powerhouse teams. Hyundai Motorsport claimed the prestigious Drivers’ Championship, with Thierry Neuville and co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe securing the crown. Meanwhile, Toyota clinched a dramatic victory in the Manufacturers’ Championship, sealing the title on the final stage of the FORUM8 Rally Japan.
Reflecting on the drivers’ race, Toyota showed immense sportsmanship, saying:
“Thierry, Martijn, and everyone at Hyundai, congratulations on winning the drivers’ and co-drivers’ championship titles. WRC 2024 became really exciting as we fought against each other until the final round, the final day, and the final stage.”
Asian Manufacturers Shaping the WRC
Toyoda emphasized the significance of this rivalry not just for the teams but for Asian motorsports as a whole.
“As Asian car manufacturers, we have shown fans the sound and smell of rally cars on the roads of East Asia. Let’s continue to boost motorsports in Asia together, and let’s have a good fight again next year!”
This camaraderie highlights the importance of cooperation and competition in elevating the global status of the WRC and motorsports in the region.
Toyota’s Triumph in the Manufacturers’ Championship
Despite Hyundai’s triumph in the drivers’ title race, Toyota GAZOO Racing retained its position as the number one constructor. The team’s determination and resilience throughout the season played a pivotal role in their last-minute victory.
Toyota celebrated the achievement by reiterating the team’s mantra:
“We hate to lose. With this slogan, we kept fighting until the very end without giving up. I would like to celebrate sincerely with all the TGR-WRT members today.”
The dramatic win underscored Toyota’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its ability to perform under pressure, even against formidable opponents like Hyundai.
Hyundai vs. Toyota: A Rivalry for the Ages
The rivalry between Hyundai Motorsport and Toyota GAZOO Racing has become one of the most compelling storylines in the WRC. Both teams pushed each other to their limits in 2024, delivering edge-of-your-seat moments for rally fans worldwide.
Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville, with his maiden drivers’ title, showcased exceptional skill and consistency. On the other hand, Toyota’s ability to clinch the manufacturers’ title in the final stage was a testament to their team effort and strategic brilliance.
With both teams achieving monumental successes in 2024, the stage is set for another explosive season in 2025. Toyoda’s remarks indicate that Toyota is ready to push even harder, while Hyundai is equally determined to defend its drivers’ title and aim for the manufacturers’ crown.
This rivalry is expected to fuel innovation, strategy, and performance, making the upcoming season even more exhilarating for fans.
Celebrating a New Era in WRC
The 2024 WRC season marked a milestone for Asian manufacturers, with Toyota and Hyundai setting a new standard for competition and cooperation. Toyoda’s gracious acknowledgment of Hyundai’s success and his tribute to his own team highlight the spirit of sportsmanship that drives the championship.
As the countdown to the 2025 WRC season begins, one thing is certain: the competition between Toyota and Hyundai will continue to captivate motorsports enthusiasts around the globe. Fans can look forward to more intense battles, groundbreaking innovations, and unforgettable moments as these two giants of the rally world go head-to-head once again.
