Former Renault boss, Cyril Abiteboul has been appointed crew principal of Hyundai Motorsport, prompting hypothesis that the Korean producer might be eyeing F1.
In his new function, Abiteboul will assume duty for Hyundai’s WRC and buyer racing programmes, the Frenchman having 15 years of motorsport expertise, not least as crew principal at Caterham and managing director of Renault, earlier than being dropped as a part of the Alpine rebranding.
Following his departure from Renault he joined F2 engine provider Mecachrome as their motorsport advisor.
At a time F1 is exhibiting full indifference to Andretti, the prospect of a producer resembling Hyundai could be an altogether totally different prospect for the game’s powers that be.
Apparently, Abiteboul, although a highly-respected engineer, has no earlier expertise of rallying, and whereas Hyundai has by no means proven curiosity in F1 outwardly there was hypothesis over its doable involvement for a while.
An engine man, Abiteboul could be the best particular person to review F1’s engine guidelines shifting ahead, and whether or not, like Audi (and Porsche) the restricted prices and rising electrification would make an appropriate theatre for the Korean big.
“We are going to intentionally give him time to settle in, uncover the surroundings and, in time, make the crew principal function his personal,” mentioned Hyundai Motorsport President, Sean Kim. “I’ve little question that Hyundai Motorsport’s technical personnel, together with Cyril, will display stronger and clearer management sooner or later by co-operating intently with the World R&D of Hyundai Motor Firm.”
“Our ambition has at all times been for motorsport to behave as a halo for your entire Hyundai model,” added Until Wartenberg, Vice President and Head of N Model Administration & Motorsport Sub-Division. “To ship towards our successful goals, we must be continually on prime of our sport, bringing collectively the precise mix of individuals and expertise. We’re delighted to have somebody of Cyril’s calibre becoming a member of Hyundai Motorsport.”
“I’m relishing the chance to hitch Hyundai Motorsport,” mentioned Abiteboul. “In motorsport, like in the remainder of their actions, the Hyundai model is cautiously constructing its management. I’m excited on the prospect of being a part of it, managing the WRC and Buyer Racing packages, the place the crew has already confirmed to be robust rivals.
“I’m wanting ahead to immersing myself into the rallying group and discovering extra about this spectacular sport. Hyundai has given me its full assist to make the transition into this function a easy one. I am unable to wait to get began.”
