Ott Tanak to quit WRC – at least for now

The 2019 world champion is calling time on his full-time rallying career

Ott Tanak will quit the World Rally Championship following the conclusion of the 2025 season, though he’s not ruling out competitive outings in the future.

The 38-year-old made the decision “as he chooses to dedicate more of his time to his family, business and life beyond rallying”, a Hyundai Motorsport press release reads.

“After many incredible years competing at the top of the WRC, I have decided that the end of the 2025 season is the right moment to step back from full-time rallying,” Tanak said. “This isn’t a complete goodbye, it’s a chance to reset, recharge and refocus for the future. This sport has been a huge part of my life, but I feel it’s time to take a breath, spend more time with my family and focus on life back home in Estonia.”

Tanak has taken part in 174 WRC-level rallies since his debut in 2009 and has been a consistent frontrunner since 2017. He has taken 58 podium finishes, including 22 victories with M-Sport-Ford, Toyota and Hyundai.

The Estonian’s career high was his 2019 title with Toyota, ending a decade and a half of dominance by French legends Sebastien Loeb and Sebastien Ogier.

Podium: Winners Ott Tänak, Martin Järveoja, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT Toyota Yaris WRC, second place Thierry Neuville, Nicolas Gilsoul, Hyundai Motorsport Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC, third place Sébastien Ogier, Julien Ingrassia, Citroën World Rally Team Citroen C3 WRC

Photo by: Toyota Racing

His five-year, two-part spell at Hyundai has seen him take rally wins and consistent podium finishes every year. His results and behaviour earned him laudatory praise from Hyundai Motorsport president Cyril Abiteboul.

“While we were sad to learn of Ott’s decision, we naturally understand his motivation to step away from full-time rallying,” Abiteboul said. “We have achieved a lot together across two very successful eras – from that first electrifying win in Estonia to the 2020 manufacturers’ title, as well as eight victories and many podiums.

“For all the highs we have celebrated together, there have also been some lows, yet Ott has always remained fully committed. He is one of the finest rally drivers in the world and remains a force to be reckoned with; when he has all the right ingredients, he is unstoppable.

“Ott has been a true inspiration on and off the stages, and we thank him for his contributions to the success of our team. It may be the second time we are parting ways, but Ott remains part of the Hyundai family. Thank you, Ott – we hope we meet again one day.”

Tanak thanked Hyundai and the fans, adding “I’m sure I’ll continue to be around in some way” – meaning he likely will return to the paddock sometime.

Tanak’s last rally as a full-time driver will be the Saudi title decider on 26-29 November, with three points separating Elfyn Evans and Ogier at the front of the standings while their Toyota team-mate Kalle Rovanpera, 24 points down, is a dark horse. Rovanpera too is leaving the WRC at the end of the season, moving to Super Formula as he pursues an F1 dream.

Tanak and co-driver Martin Jarveoja are mathematically certain to finish the season in fourth place.