The Estonian rally expert canceled his contract covering next season.
Ott Tänak says goodbye to Hyundai after the final race in Japan. Vesa Pöppönen / All Over Press
World Rally Championship driver Ott Tänak announced a week ago that he was not going to continue with Hyundai next season, even if the contract still remained. His last race will be the season-ending competition in Japan.
Hyundai’s team manager did not leave today either For Juliet Moncet completely behind the tree. He revealed a French website For Autohebdon Tänak also told about his departure intentions even before the Catalunya rally.
– Although there were rumors about it, it was a little surprising, but also disappointing. We are going to respect his decision, says Moncet.
The Estonian justified his departure by announcing that the decision was entirely his own and now is the time for new challenges. However, there has been talk behind the scenes of the rally that Tänak is not a good match with the Frenchman Moncet, who started as team manager this season, and wanted someone else to replace him. When the wish did not come true, Tänak came up with another solution.
And Moncet didn’t try too hard to keep his driver, who is second in the World Series, in his team. Between the lines, it can be interpreted that Tänak’s departure is not a complete disaster for the team boss. Moncet was asked if working with the Estonian was always easy.
– Not really, but he is a great competitor. He is the kind of guy who tries to understand every detail of the car, Moncet describes.
– At this level, a high level of requirements is normal. It is true that he has a certain character.
The conversation in which Tänak informed Moncet of his departure also did not hint at a working relationship. Tänak is talkative when there is something to improve on the car, but in front of the team boss, words were scarce.
– He did not explain his departure in any way. He didn’t give any particular reason. Ott told us everything the same as in his announcement.
The World Rally Championship will end on November 13th in Japan.