Hyundai has shown the big rally teams from around the world that they should be taken seriously with this 2nd WRC win. For the second year-in-a-row Hyundai Motorsport has claimed a sensational final stage VICTORY in Rally Italia Sardegna.
Spaniard Dani Sordo was in top form throughout the weekend – leading at the end of Friday’s stages, but Toyota’s Ott Tanak held the top spot entering the rally’s last stage. However, yet again the odds turned in Hyundai’s favour with Tanak’s car failing him in the final stage – while Sordo’s Hyundai i20 Coupe ran flawlessly, resulting in him hoisting the WINNERS trophy at the finish.
Backing up the win was Andreas Mikkelsen who claimed 3rd place, who also helped to extend Hyundai’s lead in the Manufacturer’s Championship.
Defending Rally Italia winner Thierry Neuville was unable to match the pace of his teammates, but still managed 6th overall. With more valuable points towards the Driver’s Championship, Neuville has now closed to within 7-points of current leader – Tanak.
The big winner was Sordo, who celebrated only his second World Rally victory in remarkable circumstances. “This is incredible. I have no words; it’s just an amazing feeling to take my first win for Hyundai and the second WRC win of my career”, he said.
