The 2019 world champion will leave the WRC at the end of this season, preferring to spend time with his family
Photography by Hyundai
Words by Luke Barry
Ott Tänak will take a break from the World Rally Championship at the end of the 2025 season.
The Estonian, who won the world title in 2019, wants to spend more time with his family but is not outright retiring from rallying.
“After an incredible journey in the World Rally Championship and many unforgettable seasons competing at the highest level, I have decided to take a break from full-time rallying,” Tänak said. “This choice has not been easy, but it feels like the right moment to pause, to reflect and to dedicate more time to my family and to life back home in Estonia.
“Motorsport has been my life since childhood. From the early days in local rallies to standing on the top step of the WRC podiums, this sport has shaped who I am. Every stage, every corner, every challenge has taught me something about resilience, teamwork and passion. Winning the World Rally Championship in 2019 was a dream come true, but just as valuable were the lessons learned from the difficult seasons; the moments when things didn’t go as planned and yet we kept working forward.
“In many ways, it’s been like a wild rollercoaster. Full of breathtaking highs and humbling lows, it’s been a ride that tested every part of me: physically, mentally and emotionally. But it’s also been deeply rewarding, because every up and down made the journey more meaningful. Rallying is not just about the trophies, it’s about the people, the dedication and the shared pursuit of success.
Tänak has been a mainstay of the WRC for the past decade, winning the world title in 2019
“I would like to take a moment to thank everyone who has been part of this story. First and foremost, to all my sponsors since the very beginning – without your support, we wouldn’t be here today. Estonian motorsport wouldn’t be what it is now without your dedication. I’m forever grateful to Markko [Märtin] who built this bridge to WRC and opened the way for so many Estonians to follow in this sport.
“To my teams over the years: M-Sport, Toyota, Hyundai and everyone I’ve had the privilege to work with. Thank you all for your belief, your hard work, your trust and patience. To my co-drivers, my engineers, mechanics and all the people behind the scenes. Your passion and precision are what makes this sport so special. Nothing in rally is achieved alone and I’ve been fortunate to stand among the best in the chase for perfection.
“To the rally community and the fans: you have been an incredible source of motivation. The energy at the service parks, the messages of support after difficult weekends or victories, for years there has been no WRC event without Estonian flag – that’s impressive! These are the things that kept me going. I am truly grateful for your support through every twist and turn of this journey.
“There has come a time in my career when the balance between competition and personal life needs to be reconsidered. My children are growing, life moves fast and I want to be present for the moments that matter most. I also want to take the time to reconnect with my roots, to enjoy the calm of home and to think about what comes next, both as a person and as a professional.
Tänak is not saying goodbye to rallying forever, just realigning his priorities
“This is not a final goodbye to rallying. It’s simply a chance to reset, recharge and refocus. I still love the sport deeply and I’m sure I’ll continue to be around in one way or another. Rallying will always be a part of me and I’ll always be proud of what we’ve achieved together.
“As I look back on this incredible chapter, I do so with gratitude and humility. It has been one hell of a ride – a journey that I will cherish forever. Thank you to everyone who shared this chapter with me!
For now, it’s time to slow down, take a breath and enjoy life’s quieter roads. See you somewhere down the road!”
Tänak’s decision leaves Hyundai with a seat to fill for 2026 alongside Thierry Neuville and Adrien Fourmaux.
Words:Luke Barry
Tags: Ott Tanak, WRC, WRC 2025, WRC 2026
Publish Date November 9, 2025 DirtFish
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