Hello rally fans!
Hyundai Motorsport has announced that the anticipated evolution of their i20 N “EVO” Rally1 car will not debut at the 2025 Rallye Monte Carlo rally. Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul confirmed that development delays have postponed the introduction of the upgraded vehicle.
The team had planned to use four development ‘jokers’, meaning special allowances for modifications allocated for the 2025 and 2026 seasons to enhance the current Hybrid i20 N Rally1. These upgrades were intended to improve various aspects of the car, including suspension and other undisclosed components. However, regulatory rules were uncertain, which were only resolved in mid-autumn, led to the project’s delay. As a result, the car set to compete in Monte Carlo will mirror last season’s model, without the planned improvements.
However witth all of this going on Hyundai’s strategy for the 2026 season is becoming clearer. The team has indicated that it may not pursue further developments during 2025., suggesting a potential shift in management which I already mentioned but who knows what else will happen. Abiteboul has mentioned the possibility of Hyundai’s WRC operations being managed by a private team in 2026 to fulfill contractual obligations with the FIA and WRC Promoter.
In the meantime, Hyundai continues to test its current vehicles. Recently, the non-hybrid i20 N Rally1 was put through its paces at the Monza Rally Show (which I also wrote about :)).
For a closer look at the non-hybrid i20 N Rally1 in action, you can watch the following video:
Please visit: Hive Rally community 🏎️💨