Thierry Neuville wins the individual title, but Toyota says they are the best team

The 2024 World Rally Championship (WRC) season concluded with a dramatic twist as Thierry Neuville secured his long-awaited individual title. However, just as the celebrations began, Toyota Gazoo Racing made a bold statement: “We are the best team.” This declaration sparked heated debates among fans and insiders, as Toyota backed their claim with impressive statistics. The question remains—does Neuville’s individual success outweigh Toyota’s collective dominance?

Let’s explore the details behind Neuville’s triumph and Toyota’s assertion of team superiority.

Thierry Neuville’s Hard-Fought Path to the Drivers’ Title

After several seasons of near misses, Thierry Neuville finally captured the WRC Drivers’ Championship in 2024. Driving for Hyundai Motorsport, Neuville demonstrated a perfect balance of speed, consistency, and mental resilience throughout the season. His ability to adapt to different terrains and weather conditions gave him a crucial edge over his rivals.

Neuville’s standout performances included victories in high-profile rallies such as Finland, Portugal, and Japan. His determination and strategic approach to each rally allowed him to stay in contention for the title, even when facing setbacks. By the end of the season, Neuville had accumulated enough points to claim his first individual championship.

His triumph was met with widespread praise from fans and analysts, who recognized his relentless pursuit of success. However, as the dust settled, Toyota Gazoo Racing shifted the conversation by emphasizing their own achievements.

Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Bold Statement: “We Are the Best Team”

While Neuville celebrated his personal success, Toyota Gazoo Racing was quick to remind the world that rallying is a team sport. Despite Neuville’s individual victory, Toyota once again dominated the WRC constructors’ championship, securing the title with a comfortable points lead over Hyundai.

Led by drivers Kalle Rovanperä, Elfyn Evans, and Sébastien Ogier, Toyota showcased unmatched consistency throughout the season. The team’s ability to deliver podium finishes and maximize points across all events highlighted their collective strength.

According to Jari-Matti Latvala, Toyota’s Team Principal, the team’s goal has always been to dominate the sport as a whole. “Individual titles are important, but rallying is about teamwork. We win together, and that’s what makes us the best,” Latvala said.

Neuville vs. Toyota: What Matters More?

The contrasting narratives of Thierry Neuville’s individual triumph and Toyota’s team dominance have sparked an interesting debate within the rally community. Some argue that Neuville’s title is the pinnacle of success in the WRC, as it reflects the skill and determination required to be the best driver in the world.

On the other hand, many believe that Toyota’s Constructors’ Championship win is more significant. Rallying is a sport that relies heavily on teamwork, from mechanics and engineers to strategists and drivers. Toyota’s consistent success over multiple seasons proves that they are a force to be reckoned with in the WRC.

Even Neuville acknowledged the importance of teamwork in his victory speech, thanking his Hyundai Motorsport crew for their relentless support. However, he also emphasized the personal sacrifices and mental strength required to win the drivers’ title—a feat that no team can achieve for a driver.

What Does This Mean for the 2025 Season?

Looking ahead to the 2025 WRC season, both Neuville and Toyota have something to prove. Thierry Neuville will enter the season as the defending champion, aiming to retain his title and solidify his legacy. Meanwhile, Toyota Gazoo Racing will focus on maintaining their dominance in the constructors’ championship and reclaiming the drivers’ championship.

For Hyundai Motorsport, the challenge is twofold: they must build a stronger team to rival Toyota’s collective strength while also supporting Neuville in his quest for another individual title. The competition between the two manufacturers is likely to intensify, making the upcoming season even more exciting for fans.

Conclusion: Who Truly Dominated the 2024 WRC Season?

The 2024 World Rally Championship season will be remembered for Thierry Neuville’s breakthrough victory and Toyota’s team dominance. Both achievements are significant in their own right, but they represent different aspects of success in rallying—individual brilliance versus collective strength.

While Neuville basks in the glory of his first drivers’ title, Toyota Gazoo Racing remains confident in their status as the best team in the world. As the rivalry between Hyundai and Toyota continues, fans can expect more intense battles and dramatic moments in the 2025 season.

In the end, rallying is a sport that celebrates both individual talent and teamwork. Thierry Neuville may have claimed the spotlight, but Toyota’s bold statement reminds everyone that success in motorsport is rarely a solo achievement.