The latest constructors’ title of the World Rally Championship achieved by Toyota has been deemed «incredible» by its deputy director, Juha Kankkunen. The Japanese manufacturer made history in Chile last weekend, securing its tenth championship, thus matching Lancia as the most successful manufacturer in rally history.
Toyota has established itself as the dominant force in the WRC, with this title representing its sixth consecutively, starting from 2021. Moreover, this victory has occurred with two races still to be held in the 2026 season. Before this streak of success, Toyota had previously won titles in 1993, 1994, 1999, and 2018.
The GR Yaris, Toyota’s star vehicle, has proven to be unbeatable, winning 56 of the 77 rallies held since the introduction of the Rally1 rules cycle in 2022.
Prior to Toyota’s current dominance, Lancia held the record for constructors’ titles, with a total of 10 titles achieved over three decades. Kankkunen, who oversaw Toyota’s triumphs in 2025 and 2026, also played a crucial role in the brand’s victories in the early 1990s.
According to Kankkunen, this is a very special moment for the team. «The defense of this title is a reflection of everyone’s hard work throughout this season. Having 10 championships is simply incredible and very special for me, both as a driver and as a member of the management team,» he remarked.
Toyota’s president, Akio Toyoda, also celebrated the triumph, highlighting the achievements of his drivers during the season. «Takamoto Katsuta won two consecutive races in the first half of the season, and both Elfyn Evans and Seb Ogier have secured two wins each,» noted Toyoda. «After some difficulties, it is rewarding to see that Oliver Solberg and Elliott Edmondson have finally been able to achieve their second win of the year in Chile, thus securing the title for Toyota Gazoo Racing. Congratulations to Jari-Matti Latvala, Juha Kankkunen, and the entire team for their incredible effort.»
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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