Neuville carries Hyundai’s last hope to the great WRC, but rivals taunt him as a failure

Thierry Neuville has been the face of Hyundai Motorsport in the World Rally Championship for years, embodying the team’s relentless pursuit of glory. As the 2025 WRC season intensifies, he now carries a responsibility greater than ever before—he is Hyundai’s last hope for securing a championship in an era where competition has never been fiercer.

Despite his talent and experience, Neuville finds himself at the center of controversy. Rivals mock him, questioning his ability to deliver when it matters most. The jabs come from all directions, as competitors and critics alike paint him as a driver who falters under pressure. But is there any truth to these claims, or is Neuville simply the victim of mind games meant to shake his confidence?

A Legacy of Determination and Unfinished Business

Neuville’s journey with Hyundai has been one of remarkable highs and frustrating lows. Since joining the team, he has played a crucial role in its transformation from an underdog to a true WRC contender. His aggressive driving style, combined with his technical skill, has often put him in contention for the championship.

However, despite coming close multiple times, Neuville has yet to secure a world title. This has fueled skepticism about his ability to get the job done when the stakes are highest. He has finished runner-up in the WRC championship on multiple occasions, always just short of the ultimate prize.

Critics argue that Hyundai’s faith in Neuville is misplaced, that the team needs fresh blood to finally achieve its long-sought championship. But those who know Neuville best understand that he thrives when his back is against the wall. With Hyundai depending on him now more than ever, he is determined to prove that his time has not passed.

Rivals Mock, but Mind Games Are Nothing New

The WRC is as much about psychological warfare as it is about raw driving ability. Neuville’s rivals are well aware of the pressure he faces, and they have wasted no time exploiting it.

Sebastien Ogier, an eight-time world champion, has been vocal in his criticism. He has suggested that Neuville lacks the mental fortitude to handle the demands of a championship battle. His remarks carry weight, given his own legendary career. Meanwhile, Ott Tänak, who once partnered with Neuville at Hyundai before leaving under tense circumstances, has thrown his own jabs, implying that Hyundai is backing the wrong driver.

Social media has only amplified the ridicule. Fans of other teams mock Hyundai’s reliance on Neuville, pointing out that despite years of investment, he has failed to bring home the championship trophy. Some even go as far as to call him a liability rather than an asset.

But Neuville has heard it all before. The Belgian driver is no stranger to criticism, and if anything, it fuels his determination. He has responded to the taunts in his own way—by letting his driving do the talking.

Hyundai’s Struggles and the Search for a Turning Point

Hyundai Motorsport’s challenges extend beyond Neuville. The team has faced difficulties adapting to the evolving landscape of WRC, particularly with the transition to hybrid technology. While Toyota and Ford have made significant strides, Hyundai has struggled to keep pace, often finding itself outclassed in key areas such as reliability and performance over rough terrain.

The 2025 season has been especially brutal. Mechanical failures, inconsistent pace, and strategic missteps have left the team trailing behind its rivals. Despite flashes of brilliance, Hyundai has yet to string together a dominant run of performances.

This has put additional pressure on Neuville. As the team’s most experienced driver, he is expected to deliver results even when the odds are against him. Every rally presents a new challenge, and every setback is scrutinized.

Hyundai’s leadership remains publicly supportive of Neuville, but behind closed doors, frustration is mounting. If the team fails to turn things around soon, drastic changes could be on the horizon.

The Path to Redemption: Can Neuville Prove the Doubters Wrong?

Neuville’s path to redemption is clear—he must win, and he must do it convincingly. A single rally victory is not enough; he needs a consistent run of top performances to silence his critics.

His strengths as a driver give him a fighting chance. He has always excelled on tarmac rallies, where his precision and car control allow him to push the limits. But to win a championship, he must also prove himself on gravel and snow, conditions that have historically favored his rivals.

Neuville’s biggest challenge will be maintaining composure under pressure. In the past, small mistakes have cost him crucial victories. If he can eliminate those errors and capitalize on every opportunity, he still has time to turn the season around.

Inside the Hyundai Garage: A Team Divided?

While Neuville remains Hyundai’s top hope, whispers of internal tension within the team cannot be ignored. There are reports of disagreements between engineers and management regarding the car’s development path. Some believe that too much effort is being placed on supporting Neuville, while others argue that he is the only driver capable of keeping Hyundai competitive.

Young talents within Hyundai’s ranks are waiting for their chance. If Neuville fails to deliver, the team may be forced to look toward a new generation of drivers. The idea of replacing Neuville is not yet a serious discussion, but if results do not improve, it could become a reality.

The Stakes of the Next Rally

The upcoming rally is a critical moment for Neuville and Hyundai. A strong finish would restore confidence and prove that they are still contenders. A poor performance, however, would only fuel the narrative that Hyundai’s time at the top is slipping away.

The competition will be relentless. Toyota’s Kalle Rovanperä, the reigning champion, has shown no signs of slowing down. Ford’s new lineup is hungrier than ever, and veteran drivers like Ogier and Tänak are eager to crush any hope Hyundai has left.

For Neuville, this is more than just another race—it is a battle for his legacy. If he can rise above the doubt and deliver when it matters most, he will finally silence those who have questioned him for years. But if he fails, the taunts will only grow louder.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy on the Line

Neuville’s career has been defined by resilience. No matter how many times he has been knocked down, he has always found a way to fight back. But the stakes have never been higher than they are now.

Hyundai is counting on him to carry the team’s hopes forward, and the entire WRC world is watching to see if he can handle the pressure. His critics believe they already know the answer, but Neuville has a chance to prove them all wrong.

The upcoming rallies will determine whether he cements his place as a WRC great or becomes a cautionary tale of wasted potential. Either way, one thing is certain—the story of Thierry Neuville is far from over.