Rally Japan wraps up a stunning WRC season

Thierry Neuville emerged from the tunnel wide-eyed. He hadn’t expected this on the eve of FORUM8 Rally Japan. Following in the footsteps of some of the world’s finest rugby players, the Hyundai driver’s arrival on the Toyota Stadium playing surface was well received.

The Belgian smiled as he and co-driver Martijn Wydaeghe were announced ahead of Thursday night’s opening stage inside the stunning sporting arena. A world title might well have been just three and a half days away, but that could wait – this was a moment to savour.

“There were so many,” he said. “It was a really nice atmosphere. Always, this rally brings so many fans.”

Predictably, the biggest cheers were saved for local hero Takamoto Katsuta. The Japanese stopped and stared when he made his entrance. For the Toyota driver, his day had been busier than most.

“It’s always the same at home in Japan,” he said. “It’s amazing to see so many people coming to the stadium here – today the number of fans has been incredible. I have to say a very big thank you, always. The support is always so nice.”

From Thursday through Sunday, the stadium and the service park were packed, with the crowds enjoying some of the sport’s finest cars from generations past, the chance to buy a Takamoto Katsuta bobble hat or a Rally Japan baseball shirt and, of course, the opportunity to meet and greet their heroes.

Last week’s WRC 2024 finale was a special one, with an action-packed event coming to a jaw-dropping conclusion beneath beautiful blue skies framed by autumn-tinged, deep red Acers. It was a fitting end to one of the most captivating chapters in the history of the world championship.