Ott Tänak could decide to take a step back

For several weeks, this has been the major subject that has agitated the WRC. Ott Tänak will he leave Hyundai Motorsport where he is still under contract to join Malcolm Wilson's team? Until now, the Estonian had always remained very vague when the question was raised. “It's just rumors,” he replied most of the time.

A few hours before the launch of the rally from New Zealand whose shakedown will take place tomorrow from 9:00 a.m. (22:00 p.m. in France), the 2019 world champion provided clarification on his situation. “ I haven't decided anything yet, he explained. I am indeed under contract, but the question is not just limited to knowing which team. I also need to evaluate whether I continue. I'm not under pressure to choose, so I can't say when I would make my decision. This is not related to this season's results. I first want to see how the situation in my family will unfold during the end of this year. Then I will evaluate whether I should stay with her or continue. »

Ott Tänak missed the Monza rally last year, without there being a sporting reason and it appears that the Hyundai driver could take the same step if he considers that his place is with his family and not in the special. If he were to choose to put his career on hold, this would require Hyundai to find a replacement. In the meantime, Tänak remains Kalle Rovanperä's only opponent for the title and he fully intends to make life difficult for the young Finn until the end.

ALSO READ > The 2022 Rally New Zealand program