The 2019 World Rally Champion has announced that he will temporarily retire from the WRC at the end of this season to spend more time with his family.
Ott Tanak has confirmed that he will take a break from the World Rally Championship after the 2025 season, explaining that it is time to “reset the balance” between his professional and personal life. The Estonian Hyundai driver, who was crowned World Champion in 2019 with Toyota, stresses that he is not retiring from racing permanently, but wants to spend time with his family and loved ones.
“After an incredible journey in the WRC and many unforgettable seasons at the highest level, I have decided to take a break from racing as a full-time driver. This choice was not easy, but I feel it is the right time to stop for a while, reflect and dedicate more time to my family and life back in Estonia,” said Tänak.
Tänak, who has been a key figure in the WRC for the past decade, also spoke about his journey so far: “Motorsport has been my life since I was a child. From my early days in local races to the moment I climbed the highest step of the WRC podium, this sport has shaped me. Every stage, every corner, every challenge has taught me something about endurance, teamwork and passion. Winning the title in 2019 was a dream come true, but equally valuable were the lessons of the difficult seasons, when things didn’t go our way but we kept fighting.
In many ways, it has been a rollercoaster of incredible highs and lows; a journey that has tested every part of me – physically, mentally and emotionally. But it has also been deeply rewarding, because every moment has made the journey more meaningful. “Rallying is not just about trophies, it’s about people, dedication and a shared passion for perfection.”
The Estonian thanked everyone who has stood by him over the years, from sponsors and teams to fans: “I want to thank everyone who has been a part of this story. First of all, my sponsors from the early years – without their support we wouldn’t be here. I am forever grateful to Marko Martin for paving the way for so many Estonian drivers. Thank you to my teams – M-Sport, Toyota, Hyundai – and everyone who worked with me. The co-drivers, the mechanics, the people behind the lights. You don’t win anything in rallying alone and I was lucky enough to be among the best.
To the rally community and the fans: you have been an incredible source of motivation. The energy in the service parks, the messages of support after difficult weekends or victories, the Estonian flags at every race – these are what kept me alive all along the way. The time has come for me to rethink the balance between racing and personal life. My children are growing up, time is passing and I want to be present in the moments that matter. I also want to reconnect with my roots, enjoy the peace of home and think about what comes next – as a person and as a professional.
This is not a farewell to rallying. It is simply a chance to recharge my batteries and regroup. I still have a deep love for the sport and I am sure I will stay involved in some way. Rallying will always be a part of me and I will always be proud of what we have achieved together. Now it is time to relax, take a breath and enjoy the quieter roads of life. We will meet again somewhere on the road!”
Tänak’s departure leaves Hyundai with a gap ahead of the 2026 season, where Thierry Neuville and Adrien Fourmeaux are expected to remain as the team’s two main drivers. The name that will fill the Estonian’s place has not yet been announced, but early indications point to the possible selection of a new driver alongside Neuville.
