Whatshot
Podium secured in Spain - Thierry/Martijn took second with all three crews inside the top-five
Podium secured in Spain - Thierry/Martijn took second with all three crews inside the top-five
The penultimate round of the 2022 WRC season saw Hyundai score another podium result as Thierry and Martijn finished Rally de Espana in second position.
Hyundai's Belgians took an early lead on Friday but had to settle for the runner-up spot after missing some performance from their i20 N Rally compared to the front-running crew.
"Second place is a good result for us this weekend," said Thierry. "We missed a bit of performance in the early phase of the rally, in the tricky conditions on Friday. Unfortunately, we lost any chance to fight for victory there at the beginning. I am happy for the team that we have added another podium result."
The result marked Thierry and Martijn' s fourth podium of the season after Sweden (second), Croatia (third), and Greece (first). It also represented Hyundai's 14th top three finishes of the year.
Ott and Martin struggled to find the right feeling with the car all weekend but were still able to complete the rally in fourth place.
Dani and Candido found a breakthrough on Saturday's itinerary on their way to fifth place. Our Spaniards took an impressive stage win on the day's longest stage, El Montmell, and went onto add another fastest time on Sunday morning.
The final day of the tarmac rally got underway in early morning darkness with the Pratdip stage offering a unique wakeup call. Our crew was fully alert for the challenge, lighting up the timesheets to lead a team 1-2.
"I have given it everything," said Dani. "Thanks to the team for giving me the opportunity to compete again in my home rally and giving me a car like this. It has been incredible to see so many fans here and to feel all their support."
Rally Japan takes place from November 10-13. 2022 FIA World Rally Championship for Manufacturers' Standings after round 12 are:
- Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team 503
- Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team 410
- M-Sport Ford World Rally Team 238
- Toyota Gazoo Racing World RallyTeam NG 122
2022 FIA World Rally Championship for Drivers' Standings After round 12 are:
- K. Rovanperii 255
- Tiinak 187
- T. Neuville 166
- E. Evans 124
- T. Katsuta 106