Ott Tänak will take a break from full-time rallying at the end of the 2025 WRC season. The Estonian announced the news after Rally Japan, the penultimate round of the season.
2019 WRC champion Ott Tänak will leave the WRC at the end of the 2025 season, saying he wants to spend more time at home with his family.
The 38-year-old didn’t rule out retiring from rallying altogether, however, as he says the break “is not a final goodbye to rallying. It’s simply a chance to reset, recharge and refocus.”
“After an incredible journey in the World Rally Championship and many unforgettable seasons competing at the highest level, I have decided to take a break from full-time rallying. This choice has not been easy, but it feels like the right moment to pause, to reflect and to dedicate more time to my family and to life back home in Estonia,” Tänak said in a lengthy and thorough message posted on social media.
Thank you all! pic.twitter.com/Rf818MHfYq
— Ott Tänak (@OttTanak) November 9, 2025
Tänak: “This is not a final goodbye to rallying”
The message ends with: “This is not a final goodbye to rallying. It’s simply a chance to reset, recharge and refocus. I still love the sport deeply and I’m sure I’ll continue to be around in one way or another. Rallying will always be a part of me and I’ll always be proud of what we’ve achieved together.
“As I look back on this incredible chapter, I do so with gratitude and humility. It has been one hell of a ride – a journey that I will cherish forever. Thank you to everyone who shared this chapter with me!
“For now, it’s time to slow down, take a breath and enjoy life’s quieter roads. See you somewhere down the road,” Tänak said.
Tänak’s decision to leave the sport means Hyundai have at least one seat to fill for 2026. While Thierry Neuville is confirmed to continue with the team next year, and Adrien Fourmaux all but confirmed to stay, the team have a seat to fill alongside Neuville and Fourmaux.
Hyundai says it “will announce its full 2026 WRC line-up in due course.”
Photo: Hyundai Motorsport
