Thierry Neuville reflects on difficult asphalt finale in Japan

Thierry Neuville concluded the final asphalt round of the season in Japan with a sixth-place finish, marking a challenging weekend for the Hyundai driver. Struggling to find a competitive balance with his i20 N Rally1, Neuville found himself unable to contend with the Toyota quartet that swept the top four positions. The result reflected ongoing difficulties the team has faced on sealed surfaces throughout the year.

Neuville attributed the performance deficit to a combination of factors, including the removal of hybrid power and subsequent changes in torque delivery and tire behavior. According to the champion, these technical adjustments have hampered the car's drivability and engine response on corner exit compared to previous seasons. He noted that while the current Rally1 machines provided impressive outright speed during the hybrid era, the latest iteration has left Hyundai struggling to match the pace set by their rivals.

Looking ahead, the championship shifts to gravel, a surface where Neuville expects Hyundai to regain its footing. While he remains optimistic about upcoming rallies, he acknowledged that uncertainty surrounding new Hankook tires remains a key variable for the team. Despite the recent frustrations, Neuville reflected on the current car's legacy, highlighting that the five-year era was defined by memorable, albeit inconsistent, performance across various conditions.