The recent Monte Carlo rally saw all three Hyundai cars facing difficulties with their anti-lag system. Among them, Ott Tanak was the most affected due to his driving style. Hyundai has identified the issue but intends to rectify it by implementing new software. However, the upcoming snow-covered roads in Sweden are not expected to pose a significant problem for Hyundai and Tanak.
Team principal Cyril Abiteboul acknowledged that the issue with the anti-lag system needed attention. While it is more noticeable in Tanak’s car, it is not solely attributed to his driving style. Hyundai recognizes the problem and aims to address it by homologating new software. Unfortunately, the solution will not be in place before the Sweden rally, but the team remains optimistic that the grip level and colder conditions will minimize the impact of the issue.
Despite identifying returning world champion Kalle Rovanpera as the rally favorite, Abiteboul believes that Tanak, Thierry Neuville, and Esapekka Lappi can put up a good fight. The team’s past performance in Sweden, with Tanak winning the rally multiple times, gives them confidence. However, Abiteboul acknowledges the challenge presented by Rovanpera and emphasizes the need to consider the championship standings while aiming to beat him.
Thierry Neuville, the winner of the previous Monte Carlo rally and the current championship leader, faces the disadvantage of starting first on the road in Sweden. Despite this, Neuville aims to secure a podium finish. However, his pre-event test did not go entirely according to plan due to software issues. While Abiteboul described them as minor, it did hinder the team’s ability to conduct extensive testing and experiment with new software.
Looking forward, Neuville finds it difficult to predict the conditions they will face in Sweden. The rally presents unique challenges, and it’s hard to anticipate the specific circumstances. Nevertheless, Neuville remains determined to achieve a podium finish and offset the disadvantage of starting first on the road.
The issues with the anti-lag system impacted Hyundai’s performance in the recent Monte Carlo rally. The team is working to rectify the problem by implementing new software, which will likely be homologated for the next tarmac rally in Croatia. Despite facing setbacks, Hyundai remains confident in their drivers’ ability to compete with the rally favorite, Kalle Rovanpera. Thierry Neuville aims for a podium finish in Sweden, despite the challenges posed by starting first on the road. While uncertainties surround the specific conditions of the rally, the team is determined to overcome obstacles and continue their pursuit of championship success.
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