Toyota and Hyundai threaten to withdraw from WRC Rally Saudi Arabia finale

The World Rally Championship season-ending Rally Saudi Arabia is at risk as Toyota and Hyundai indicate they may not participate in the November event. Sporting directors Kaj Lindström and Andrew Wheatley informed the FIA that internal corporate travel bans regarding the Middle East currently prevent factory team employees from traveling to the region. M-Sport Ford has indicated no such restrictions prevent their attendance. FIA Road Sport Director Emilia Abel confirmed the event remains on the schedule, though shipping and freight deadlines are nearing. The governing body must decide within days whether the rally will proceed as planned, be relocated, or be cancelled. This uncertainty follows the cancellation of the 2026 Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix earlier this year, with F1 officials expected to make a final determination on upcoming Middle Eastern races by mid-September.

• 8:15 PMYahoo Sports — WRC Finale In Limbo as Toyota and Hyundai Say They Won't Go