Ott Tänak has made a sensational return to the Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team, stepping into a key role in the development of the Japanese manufacturer’s 2027-specification car.
The 2019 world champion, who achieved his title with Toyota, was back behind the wheel of a factory car during a development test in Croatia, marking his first full day of running with the team in several years.
Speaking about the opportunity, Tänak revealed that the approach from Toyota came recently, but it was one he was quick to accept. After taking time away from full-time rallying, the Estonian admitted he has enjoyed the balance of focusing on personal projects while still staying connected to the sport. This new role allows him to combine both, offering the chance to drive at a high level without the demanding schedule of a full WRC campaign.
The Croatian test marked the beginning of what will be an ongoing collaboration throughout the season, with Tänak set to contribute regularly to the car’s development. Despite his return to a familiar environment, he was keen to clarify that this does not signal a competitive comeback to the championship—at least for now.
From a technical perspective, the challenge ahead is significant. The upcoming 2027 regulations represent a major shift for the WRC, and Tänak acknowledged that maximizing performance under these new rules will not be easy. In fact, he pointed out that one of the biggest targets will be ensuring that the new-generation cars can outperform Rally2 machinery, underlining just how competitive the landscape is expected to become.
While speculation naturally surrounds his long-term future, Tänak made it clear that no concrete plans are in place beyond his current involvement. For the time being, he is content with a role that offers both flexibility and purpose—regular test outings, valuable mileage, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to a top-level project without the pressure of competing every rally weekend.
This return also carries a strong emotional element. Tänak admitted it feels natural to be back working with Toyota, where he shares strong relationships and positive memories from his championship-winning period. Reuniting with familiar faces and contributing to a new chapter in the team’s history has made the experience even more rewarding.
Ultimately, Tänak’s involvement highlights both his enduring passion for rallying and his technical value as a driver. Even away from the front-line competition, he remains deeply connected to the sport, playing an important role in shaping its future through the development of the next generation of WRC cars.
Source: DirtFish.com
Photo Credits: Hyundai
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