From Runner-Up to Champion: The Incredible Journey That Led Neuville to WRC Glory

Thierry Neuville’s long and winding road to his first World Rally Championship (WRC) title was a journey filled with perseverance, determination, and overcoming numerous challenges. After finishing as the runner-up five times, Neuville finally claimed the long-awaited title in 2024, securing his place in rallying history.

Neuville entered the final round at Rally Japan with a 25-point lead over his closest rival, Ott Tänak. He needed only six more points to secure the title, but his path to victory was far from straightforward. A turbo failure during the rally threatened to derail his championship hopes, but the Belgian mounted a remarkable comeback, climbing from 15th to 6th. Ultimately, Neuville was crowned champion when Tänak crashed out of the lead on Stage 17, making Neuville the 2024 WRC champion.

This victory marks the culmination of a 17-year journey that began in 2007 when Neuville, at just 19 years old, began his rally career. In his early years, he showed rapid progress, from finishing second in his debut event at Rallye Luxembourg to winning the Royal Automobile Club of Belgium Rally Contest the following year and gaining recognition in the international arena. His career continued to rise as he made his debut in the Junior WRC in 2010 and became a regular in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC), showcasing his potential despite occasional setbacks.

Neuville’s WRC career officially began in 2012 when he joined Citroën’s junior team. Though his early years were marked by inconsistency, his speed and talent earned him a podium finish in 2013, his first of many. He then moved to M-Sport Ford and, ultimately, Hyundai in 2014, where he became the team leader and scored his first WRC win that same year. Over the following seasons, Neuville continued to show his skill, but the WRC title remained elusive due to a series of crashes and mechanical issues, often finishing as the runner-up.

Despite facing many challenges, Neuville’s resilience never wavered. In 2024, he enjoyed his most consistent season yet, capitalizing on Kalle Rovanperä’s partial campaign and initial struggles from Tänak with the Hyundai i20 N. Victories in Monte Carlo and Greece gave him a strong lead, setting him up for the championship. The Monte Carlo win, in particular, highlighted Neuville at his best—fast, focused, and unafraid of pressure.

Standing on the podium in Japan, Neuville could finally savor the fruits of his long and hard journey. “We’ve worked for so long to achieve this championship,” he said, reflecting on his rise to the top. His 2024 victory not only confirmed his place among the best in the sport but also served as a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and an unwavering desire to become the very best.