The Japanese brand Toyota has achieved a monumental success in the rally world, equalling Lancia as the most crowned brand in the history of the World Rally Championship. The achievement was materialized with the victory of the manufacturers’ title for 2026, confirmed during the competition in Chile last weekend.
This title represents the tenth for Toyota, consolidating an unprecedented leadership in the championship with six consecutive titles since 2021. This year, the title was secured with two events remaining in the season. Previously, Toyota had already won the championship in 1993, 1994, 1999, and 2018.
The Toyota GR Yaris has been the undisputed reference since the start of the Rally1 rules cycle in 2022, having triumphed in 56 out of the 77 competitions held so far. Before its recent streak of success, Lancia held the record with a total of 10 manufacturers’ titles for over three decades.
Juha Kankkunen, the team’s deputy director, expressed that this moment is exceptional for the entire team, reflecting the dedication and effort of each member throughout the season. Kankkunen, who also contributed to Toyota’s victories in 1993 and 1994, had already been involved in nine manufacturers’ titles, including some from Lancia.
The president of Toyota, Akio Toyoda, celebrated the season’s successes, mentioning the victories of Takamoto Katsuta, Elfyn Evans, and Sebastien Ogier. The achievement of this title not only represents a triumph for the team but also a reflection of the talent and competitiveness of the drivers, who have worked collaboratively to achieve optimal results.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
