Pictures by Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool
Videos by YouTube
Text by Mike Charopka

How One of WRC’s Boldest Drivers Pushes the Limits—and Sometimes, Too Far

The World Rally Championship (WRC) cars are the ultimate machines—fast, maneuverable, and engineered for extreme conditions. The 2025 WRC Rally1 cars no longer feature hybrid systems, reducing their weight to 2,601 lbs (1,180 kg). Their 1.6-liter turbocharged internal combustion engines produce approximately 380 horsepower and 325 lb-ft (45 kgm) of torque, complemented by aggressive aerodynamics that enhance downforce. On fast gravel and tarmac stages, these machines reach  120–130 mph (195–210 km/h), while on tighter sections, they stay within 90–110 mph (145–175 km/h). Exceptional rallies like Finland can push speeds beyond 130 mph (210 km/h), depending on gear ratios, aerodynamics, and road conditions.

At the heart of WRC are its elite drivers—masters of precision and control, operating beyond the human limits of speed perception and environmental adaptation. They rely on their co-driver’s pace notes, instinct, and extraordinary skill. Some push even further, employing high-risk yet rewarding techniques that can lead to championship glory—or devastating crashes. Among them is Ott Tänak, an Estonian racer from Hyundai Motorsport, known for his spectacular crashes and relentless pursuit of victory.

Ott Tänak: The Risk-Taker of WRC

Born on October 15, 1987, in Kärla, Estonia, Tänak is one of his generation’s most accomplished rally drivers. He made his WRC debut in 2009 and quickly gained recognition for his raw speed and aggressive driving style. After early years with M-Sport Ford, he secured his first WRC podium in 2012, but setbacks briefly forced him out of the championship.

Returning stronger, Tänak clinched his first WRC victory in 2017 with M-Sport before joining Toyota Gazoo Racing in 2018. His breakthrough came in 2019 when he won six rallies and became the first Estonian to claim the WRC drivers’ title, ending Sébastien Ogier’s dominance. Seeking new challenges, he signed with Hyundai in 2020, remaining a top contender despite mechanical issues and high-profile crashes.

By 2025, Tänak had raced for M-Sport, Toyota, and Hyundai, consistently proving his fearless approach, speed, and resilience. His driving style, heavily reliant on Scandinavian left-foot braking, adds an extra layer of risk. As he once said in an interview: “Because we have two feet.” This bold technique makes him one of Hyundai’s leading contenders. Still, it also led to some of the most dramatic crashes in WRC history.

Tänak’s Most Spectacular Crashes

2015: The Lake Plunge

At Rally Mexico in 2015, Tänak’s M-Sport Ford Fiesta veered off the road and plunged into a lake. In a remarkable escape, he and his co-driver escaped within seconds as the car sank. Incredibly, the mechanics restored the vehicle overnight, allowing him to continue racing the next day.

2020: Monte Carlo Mayhem

Tänak’s Hyundai debut in 2020 started strong. Still, his Monte Carlo campaign ended dramatically when he lost control at 100 mph, launching his car off the road. Despite the violent crash, both he and his co-driver exited the wreck unassisted.

2024: Finland’s Brutal Impact

During Rally Finland 2024, Tänak’s Hyundai i20 Rally1 (Car No. 8) lost grip on a slippery turn, skidded off the road, and struck a tree at high speed. While both crew members escaped the wreck, co-driver Martin Järveoja was later hospitalized for further observation.

2024: Japan’s Costly Disaster

In November 2024, Rally Japan proved to be a pivotal moment for Tänak. A win would have brought him closer to a second WRC title and helped Hyundai overtake Toyota in the manufacturers’ championship. However, on Stage 17, he misjudged a corner, sending his car off the road and out of the rally. The crash leveled the points between Hyundai and Toyota, effectively eliminating him from the championship battle.

Speaking to Motorsport.com, Tänak called it “a proper disaster.” He admitted:

“I didn’t expect the corner to be slippery, but when we hit it, the front washed out, and we went too far off the road to recover.” On Hyundai’s championship hopes, he bluntly added:

“To be honest, it’s a complete f** up. It shouldn’t have happened.”

2025: Another Season, Another Risky Start

The 2025 Monte Carlo Rally was no exception to Tänak’s high-risk style. During Special Stage 6, he went off the road, severely damaging the rear of his car. The impact essentially turned his coupe into a pickup truck. Yet, Tänak continued the race, losing body panels along the way.

The World Rally Championship is the pinnacle of high-speed motorsport, demanding extreme focus, masterful car control, and a willingness to push beyond normal limits. The risks are high, but so are the rewards. Tänak’s relentless drive and fearless approach make him one of WRC’s most electrifying drivers—loved by fans for his ability to live on the edge.