Two-year agreement with the nine-time world champions ends on a high
We have announced that our co-operation with Sébastien and Daniel has come to a natural conclusion following two successful years.
In their first season as a Hyundai Motorsport crew, in 2019, they contributed to development of our technical package as we secured our maiden manufacturers’ title in WRC.
“Ever since Séb and Danos joined our team, we have been privileged to have their wealth of expertise and experience in our team,” said our Team Principal Andrea. “All areas of our operation have benefitted from their know-how, directly or indirectly. Their contribution helped us to fight for – and win – the championship last season.”
The crew secured two podiums, the first in Chile in their maiden season in the i20 Coupe WRC. The second came more recently, at Rally Turkey, in which they showed their brilliance by positioning themselves in contention for the victory. Sadly, we were unable to make the most of their experience during this pandemic-affected season with planned participations at Kenya and New Zealand unable to take place.
Turning the page
Andrea added: “Their knowledge and commitment was perfectly demonstrated in the tougher rallies like Chile and Turkey. Their performance in Turkey was a reminder to everyone of their ever-present ability and speed. We wish them all the best in their next chapter and keep our doors wide open to them should they ever wish to return.”
The crew now opens a new chapter in Rally Raid, but with the doors to our team remaining open for the future.
“What an adventure it has been!” said Sébastien. “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity during these two years within a very professional team and in a pleasant atmosphere. These two years have passed extremely quickly – this one having also been cut by several months as a result of the pandemic – but they will have marked part of my career, and with another manufacturer title success to which I contributed.”
He added: “Hyundai Motorsport gave me the best WRC car I have ever driven, and I was glad I could compete at the highest level with the latest generation of WRC cars. Now, a new chapter will open in 2021 with Prodrive in Rally Raid but who knows for WRC; neither Hyundai Motorsport nor I want to completely close the book for good.”
