Overview
- The 2019 world champion confirmed the move after finishing fourth at Rally Japan, with his final full-time event set for the Saudi Arabia season finale on 26–29 November.
- Hyundai Motorsport praised Tänak’s contributions across two spells that yielded the 2020 manufacturers’ title, eight wins with the team and numerous podiums.
- Hyundai says it will announce its 2026 driver roster in due course, having prepared a “Plan B” shortlist, with reports widely expecting Thierry Neuville and Adrien Fourmaux to feature.
- Tänak’s career includes roughly 22 WRC victories and 58 podiums since his 2009 debut, and despite Hyundai’s 2025 struggles he claimed the Acropolis Rally and multiple podiums this season.
- Rivals reacted to the news, with Elfyn Evans calling his exit a huge loss for the championship and Sébastien Ogier noting he was not entirely surprised and hopes their battles can resume one day.