Ott Tanak will launch his American Rally Association career in the factory‑backed Toyota GR Corolla Rally RC2 at the Overmountain Rally in Tennessee on September 18‑19.
New‑Car Factory Support Fuels ARA Test Run
Taxiing alongside ARA familiar faces Seth Quintero and Topi Luhtinen, Tanak and co‑driver Martin Jarveoja will take the second GR Corolla Rally RC2 to the gravel stages. Toyota’s official backing underscores the team’s intent to validate both vehicle and wheel setup for the forthcoming 2027 WRC push.
Transition from Hyundai to Toyota: A Development Phase
After ending his tenure with the Hyundai WRC squad at the close of 2025, Tanak embraced a test‑and‑development driver position at Toyota. His mandate focuses on translating feedback from American gravel into the design of the all‑new 2027 WRC machine. The September outing doubles as a data collection exercise for the U.S. segment of Toyota’s long‑term strategy.
Historical Data Harvest: A Pattern of Tactical Trials
Last month in Italy, Ta Tanak piloted the 0‑B Toyota at Rally di Roma Capitale—not for points, but to harvest telemetry ahead of a possible WRC admission. Earlier that month, he returned to the service park at Rally Finland, expressing contentment with his current duties while holding a quiet eye on next year’s WRC prospects.
Latvala’s Success Boosts Regional Bid for WRC Return
Finnish veteran Jari‑Matti Latvala’s 2024 Olympic Rally victory in a Rally 2 Toyota showcased the potential of Toyota’s package on local gravel. That win, alongside Tanak’s ARA data run, strengthens the case for Tennessee’s inclusion in a future United States WRC calendar.
Broader Implications for 2027 Technical Regime
According to Toyota, the 2027 WRC will bring radical technical tweaks. Tanak’s involvement is integral to refining the GR‑R Corolla’s compliance with these new rules. The focus remains on harnessing local terrain insights to shape the car’s next generation.
In a recent rally press briefing, Tanak noted, “I am pleased with my present role, working behind the scenes and helping Toyota acquire crucial knowledge on blank data.” The move appears to signal a continued partnership with the manufacturer, while keeping options open for a 2028 WRC return.
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