According to WRC TV Italy, it is rumored that Hyundai will decide whether the team will run or not a fourth car next year.
So far, only Thierry Neuville is under contract with Hyundai Motorsport as both parties have reached a multi-year agreement. Esapekka Lappi's deal with the Koreans is about to expire at the end of 2023, but it is very likely for both of them to discuss a potential extension. Moreover, Dani Sordo's future in WRC remains unknown as the Spaniard will decide if he will continue driving for them or his retirement from the sport. However, it must be mentioned that Cyril Abiteboul had stated that Sordo could continue being a part of Hyundai family even his retirement. On the other hand, Timo Jouhki, Teemu Suninen's manager, said that the Finn may do Rally Chile with the i20N Rally1 this year and have already secured his Rally1 seat for 2024 as it was hinted that he may compete in seven rallies next season. The most shocking news is that Hyundai and Sebastien Ogier were in talks during Rally Italia Sardegna with the team making their contract proposal to him for 2024 during Rally Finland.
Despite the reliability issues the i20N faced during this season, Hyundai will use two homologation jokers on October which will help the team to improve further their car for 2024. The Koreans lost their chance on July homologation window as the propshaft issue appeared suddenly at Safari Rally which was held 22-25 June, just five days from July opening homologation window. As the team is already preparing for 2024, Hyundai will decide about the fourth-car entry between Acropolis Rally and Rally Chile this September.
Photo Credits: Hyundai
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