Asunción, Paraguay – August 2025 – After a challenging outing at Rally Finland, the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team is determined to bounce back as the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) heads to uncharted territory for the first-ever Rally del Paraguay, the tenth round of the 2025 season.

A New Chapter for the WRC

Making its WRC debut after years as a staple of the CODASUR South American Rally Championship, Rally del Paraguay offers a fresh challenge for drivers and teams. Based in the Itapúa region, near the Argentinian border, stages combine fast, soft gravel with unpredictable grip. Heavy dust and sudden rain showers add to the difficulty, demanding precision and adaptability.

The rally spans four days, covering 19 stages and 333.18km of competitive action. Iconic tests such as the marathon Yerbateras (SS3/7, 30.00km) and scenic Bella Vista (SS16/18, 21.25km) promise to keep crews on their toes. The unique red gravel roads will be a defining feature as drivers tackle Paraguay’s motorsport debut.

Hyundai’s South American Pedigree

Hyundai Motorsport has a strong track record in South America. At Rally Chile, the team has secured three podiums (2019, 2023, 2024), while at Rally Argentina it has celebrated three victories and six podiums between 2016–2019. That experience could prove crucial as the WRC enters Paraguayan soil for the first time.

Despite the disappointment in Finland, the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 demonstrated strong pace on gravel – a key factor in the team’s push for a podium in Paraguay.

Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul said:
“This is a pivotal point in the season. Finland was a tough weekend for the whole team, but it’s time to turn that disappointment into determination. Rally del Paraguay is brand-new for everyone, so adaptability is key. With only five rounds left, we must maximise our performance and bring home valuable points for both championships.”

Driver Line-up and Expectations

• Ott Tänak / Martin Järveoja (#8 Hyundai i20 N Rally1)
  Currently fourth in the championship, Tänak is aiming to repeat his podium successes from Portugal, Sardinia, and Greece.
  “It’s always exciting to go to a brand-new rally. The recce is crucial for us to understand the terrain, setup, and grip. Everyone starts from scratch, so it’s a level playing field – good points are essential here.”
• Thierry Neuville / Martijn Wydaeghe (#1 Hyundai i20 N Rally1)
  Armed with strong South American experience, Neuville is chasing a fourth podium of 2025.
  “South America is always special, and Paraguay will be no different. We’ve studied videos and spoken with locals, but the real test starts with the recce. It’s a huge unknown, but exciting for the team and the championship.”
• Adrien Fourmaux / Alexandre Coria (#16 Hyundai i20 N Rally1)
  After finishing strong in Chile 2024, Fourmaux targets his first podium since Greece in June.
  “We don’t know much about Paraguay yet, but I usually adapt quickly to new rallies. With strong preparation and careful pacenotes, we can definitely fight for a podium.”

Rally del Paraguay – A Landmark Debut

With its unique red gravel, passionate fans, and South American flair, Rally del Paraguay is set to become a spectacular addition to the WRC calendar. For Hyundai Motorsport, it represents both a challenge and an opportunity to return to winning form.