Key Questions Before WRC Rally Estonia

Key Talking Points for the WRC Rally Estonia

The World Rally Championship (WRC) is entering the second half of its season, with the title race in a tight contest as the first fast gravel rally of the year takes place in Estonia. The event promises to be a crucial turning point for several drivers and teams, with the potential to shift the championship standings.

Toyota’s Struggles and Hyundai’s Momentum

Elfyn Evans, driving for Toyota, has seen his lead over team-mate Sebastien Ogier reduced to nine points after facing challenges on rough gravel rallies in Portugal, Sardinia, and Greece. However, it is Hyundai’s Ott Tanak who poses the most significant threat to Evans’ position. Tanak secured his and Hyundai’s first win since October last month in Greece, placing him 12 points behind Evans. This weekend could see the lead change hands if Tanak performs well on the fast gravel roads of Estonia.

Hyundai has focused its development efforts on improving the performance of the i20 N on smooth, fast gravel surfaces like those in Estonia and Finland. The success of this focus will be tested this weekend. After ending Toyota’s perfect start to the season in Greece, maintaining momentum is critical for both Tanak’s title bid and Thierry Neuville’s championship defense, which has been hindered by crashes and punctures in recent events.

Tanak and Neuville: Favourites or Underdogs?

Tanak, who won the WRC Rally Estonia in 2020, is considered a strong contender for another victory. However, he expressed concerns about his car’s setup during Thursday’s shakedown, stating that it is not optimal for competing for the win. “I can’t say I have much confidence for what is needed here to attack in the corners,” he said. Despite this, he remains hopeful for a strong result.

Neuville, on the other hand, is more optimistic but acknowledges the need for some car setup adjustments. “The car is not too bad. The most important thing is I feel quite comfortable in the car,” he said. His realistic target is a podium finish, given the high-speed nature of the event.

Rovanpera’s Confidence and Potential

Kalle Rovanpera, the two-time world champion, has struggled with Hankook’s gravel tyres this season but remains confident in his ability to compete for a win in Estonia. He has won the last three editions of the event, including a dominant performance in 2023. Early signs from the shakedown suggest improved performance, with Rovanpera topping the session by 0.9 seconds.

“I think here my natural way works a bit better already, so it is not such a big struggle,” Rovanpera said. A victory in Estonia could help him close the gap to Evans and re-enter the title race ahead of Rally Finland.

Evans’ Challenge from First on the Road

Despite starting first on the road, which is typically a disadvantage, Evans remains hopeful for a podium finish. A period of rain before the rally could benefit him, as it may improve road conditions. While he acknowledges that Rovanpera and Tanak will be tough competitors, he believes a strong result is still possible.

Sesks’ Return to Form

Martins Sesks, who made a name for himself last year with his pace on fast gravel rallies in Poland and Latvia, faces a tougher challenge this season. Returning to Estonia, where the high-speed gravel stages suit his style, could offer a glimpse of his previous form. “The biggest key is consistency,” he said, expressing hope for competitive times throughout the event.

Solberg’s Rally1 Debut

Oliver Solberg, making his Rally1 return with Toyota, aims to simply finish the rally. His performance in shakedown, where he was fifth fastest, suggests he has the pace to challenge for a strong result. “The feeling in the car is already quite good,” he said, indicating that he is on the right track.

Fuel System Issues: A Concern for Teams

Fuel system issues plagued several teams in the Acropolis Rally Greece, leading to retirements for M-Sport-Ford and Toyota. The FIA has taken steps to prevent a recurrence, allowing teams to fit new fuel tanks and use different materials without additional costs. Toyota, Hyundai, and M-Sport have all implemented these changes.

“Hopefully this will sort out the problem even if this is a preventive measure,” said Hyundai team principal Cyril Abiteboul. The teams are working closely with the FIA to ensure reliability for the remainder of the season.