The 2024 WRC season wasn’t just a race—it was a story of resilience, jaw-dropping moments, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. It was a year that demanded the best from every driver, team, and fan, delivering iconic moments that will echo through rally history.
The Season’s Start: Surprises and Ingenuity
The year kicked off with drivers pushing the limits of their ingenuity. In Portugal, Elfyn Evans faced a technical challenge that could have derailed his race. Instead, he turned adversity into an unforgettable moment by using his phone for pace notes, demonstrating the incredible resourcefulness that rally drivers are known for.
Meanwhile, Kalle Rovanperä stunned the motorsport world in Poland, where he entered the race with virtually no preparation but walked away victorious. His natural talent and focus reminded everyone why he’s among the best in the business.
The Safari Rally: High Jumps and High Stakes
The Safari Rally in Kenya lived up to its reputation as one of the most thrilling stops on the WRC calendar. Drivers battled through rugged terrains, but it was the jumps that stole the show, with records shattered and fans on their feet. Adrien Fourmaux earned the Action Award for his jaw-dropping leap, proving that Kenya’s rally isn’t for the faint of heart.
Italy and Tänak’s Triumph
In Sardinia, Ott Tänak delivered a masterclass, leaving even Sébastien Ogier in the dust with a victory margin measured in minutes. It was a performance that sent a clear message: Tänak wasn’t just competing; he was dominating.
Ogier, while reflecting on the season, had high praise for Thierry Neuville: “Thierry’s been incredibly compliant and consistent this year. He’s taken what I see as the perfect path to the championship.”
The Championship Battle: Down to the Wire
As the season progressed, the championship battle became tighter with each rally. Hyundai and Toyota traded victories, their rivalry driving both teams to their limits. By the time the final race in Japan arrived, it was clear this would be a showdown for the ages.
Japan didn’t disappoint. Thierry Neuville, determined and calm under pressure, delivered a performance of a lifetime. Ott Tänak, who had been Neuville’s fiercest competitor, faced an unfortunate accident on the final day, sealing the championship for Neuville. With 225 points, Neuville’s journey from perseverance to glory was complete, leaving fans cheering for his well-earned triumph.
FIA Award Ceremony: A Celebration of Excellence
The season concluded in style with the FIA Award Ceremony in Rwanda—the first time the event was held in Africa. It was a fitting tribute to a historic year. Neuville, standing tall as the drivers’ champion, reflected on his journey: “It has been great and hard work since 2012; this is a reward for our team and crew.”
Other highlights of the evening included Karan Patel’s crowning as the FIA Africa Rally Champion, Adrien Fourmaux’s recognition for his Safari Rally jump, and the Lifetime Achievement Award for Michelle Mouton, a trailblazer in motorsport. Toyota Gazoo Racing Team was named Best Manufacturer of 2024, solidifying their dominance with back-to-back wins.
A Year to Remember
2024 wasn’t just about the victories; it was about the electric moments that reminded us why we love rallying. From Elfyn Evans’ ingenuity in Portugal to Rovanperä’s unprepared brilliance in Poland, from Tänak’s dominance in Italy to the suspenseful finale in Japan, every rally was a chapter in an epic story.
This season wasn’t merely a competition; it was a testament to the spirit of rallying—resilient, daring, and unpredictable. As we close the book on 2024, one thing is clear: the bar has been set sky-high, and fans worldwide are already counting down to the next chapter in this thrilling saga.
Rally Fanatics 
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