With less than 20 days for the start of the 2025 season at 93.Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo, the WRC is buzzing with anticipation. With teams putting the finishing touches on their cars and drivers gearing up for a season of intense competition, the focus shifts to the drive line-ups. Toyota, Hyundai and M-Sport Ford have unveiled their rosters, each aiming to dominate the rally stages this year. The scene is set for another unforgettable season.
Hyundai Motorsport
Photo – DirtFish FB
Hyundai steps into the 2025 season with a revitalised driver line-up aimed at achieving consistency and championship success. For the first time in years, the team has committed to three full-season drivers, signalling a strategic shift toward stability and momentum.
Thierry Neuville and Martijn Wydaeghe – the reigning world champion continues his long-standing partnership with Hyundai, which began in 2014. Neuville’s decision to sign a one-year contract has spark some curiosity, but his focus remains on defending his title.
Ott Tänak and Martin Järveoja – returning for another season, Tänak aims to build on his improved form in 2024. A strong contender for the drivers’ title, Tänak synergy with the i20N is expected to push Hyundai to the forefront of the manufacturers’ battle.
Adrien Fourmaux and Alexandre Coria – the Frenchman joins Hyundai for a full season, bringing his impressive pace and flair to the team. His move from M-Sport Ford marks a significant career step, as he takes on the challenge of driving top-tier machinery capable of winning rallies
Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT
Photo – DirtFish FB
Toyota is set to make a strong impact with their impresive line-up with four GR Yaris Rally1 cars which showcases a combination of seasoned champions and emerging talents.
Kalle Rovaperä and Jonne Halttunen – the two-time world champion returns as a full-season driver after a part-time 2024 season. Despite limited appearances last year, Rovanperä secured four wins and now aims for his third champion title.
Elfyn Evans and Scott Martin – back for their sixth consecutive season, Evan’s consistency and second-place finish in 2024 underscore his pivotal within the team.
Takamoto Katsuta and Aaron Johnston – continuing for another full season, Katsuta remains determined to build on his experiences and deliver stronger performances in 2025. However, as Oliver Solberg joins Toyota for WRC2, the pressure is on Katsuta to perform.
Sami Pajari and Marko Salminen – following his WRC2 Champsionhip Win in 2024, Pajari makes the leap to the top-tier Rally1 category. The 23-year-old Finn is set to compete in all 14 rounds, solidifying Toyota’s focus on developing young talent.
Rounding out Toyota’s roster, Sébastien Ogier and Vincent Landais will participate in a part-time schedule, adding their expertise to select events and bolstering the team’s championship efforts.
M-Sport Ford
Photo – yle.fi
M-Sport Ford heads into the 2025 season with a fresh and exciting driver line-up. The team will field two full-time crews in the Ford Puma Rally 1.
Grégoire Munster and Louis Louka – the Luxembourg driver returns for his second full season with M-Sport after a solid debut year in 2024. Munster’s experience with the Puma Rally1 and his growing confidence at rallying’s top level make him a key asset for the team’s championship aspirations.
Josh McErlean and Eoin Treacy – marking their Rally1 debut, the Irish duo represents the future of M-Sport’s rally program. McErlean, supported by the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, has steadily risen through the ranks of WRC2 and ERC, showcasing his talent with standout performances, including a WRC2 podium in Portugal last year.
As the countdown to the 2025 WRC begins, fans can look forward to a thrilling year of rallying, with each team poised to push the limits and chase glory on the world stage. The new driver line-ups promise intense competition and unforgettable moments, making this season one to watch. Only one question remains: Who will be crowned this year’s World Rally Champion?