Ott Tänak
I believe the secret to success is commitment
Ott Tänak
Facts about Ott
- Nationality
- Estonia
- Date of birth
- 15. October 1987
- Co-driver
- Martin Järveoja
- With Hyundai Motorsport since
- 2020
- WRC starts
- 162 (end of 2024)
- Best result
- 2019 WRC drivers’ championship title
Ott Tänak is a name now synonymous with rallying all over the world.
The Estonian first appeared in the World Rally Championship at Wales Rally GB in 2011 and was quick to impress, finishing sixth on his debut. This notable performance would go on to secure him a full season campaign in 2012, where a victory on one of rally’s most challenging events, Rally Italia Sardegna, would be his first of many.
After a break away from the premier category, Ott returned in 2015. A 2018 move to a new manufacturer proved to be pivotal to his career, as he would go on to claim the coveted Drivers’ title in 2019 with five victories in his pocket.
Alongside co-driver and countryman Martin Järveoja, Ott joined Hyundai Motorsport in 2020, where the duo claimed victory at their home event, Rally Estonia, as well as three other podiums, helping the team secure a second consecutive manufacturers’ crown.
Ott went on to take four more podiums in 2021 and a further eight, including three victories in the 2022 season. He added to this tally on his return to the team in 2024, in which he scored two victories and six podium finishes in a remarkable season.
Q&A with Ott
What is your favorite WRC round and why?
For me, Rally Finland is the best event on the WRC calendar. It’s all about pure performance; it’s very demanding for the car as well as the crews. Setup is crucial to performing well because of the mix of high speeds and jumps; you need grip and stability, and to be absolutely precise with where you place the car at all times. The margins are so small that if something isn’t working, or you’re not on the pace, it’s the end of the game. Sunday will be a new challenge, with just one long stage we haven’t driven for a few years, and it is a proper test.
What do you do to focus before a rally?
Normally I try to familiarize myself by watching footage from the previous years. Remembering past events help me getting prepared for the rally.
Which profession would you have chosen if you hadn’t become a rally driver?
I would have become an engineer.
Who is your motorsport idol?
My idol was Michael Schumacher for sure.
What’s your secret to success?
I believe the secret to success is commitment. In rallying there are no easy wins and commitment means putting in the hard work, staying focused when things don’t go to plan, and always pushing to improve. That consistency and determination are what ultimately make the difference.
Latest Results
Rally Saudi Arabia
11th place
Rally Japan
4th place
Central European Rally
3rd place