After a long absence, Lancia is preparing for a remarkable return to the world of rallying, with a first step in 2026. And who better than the talented Yohan Rossel to carry the colors of this Italian icon? Expect an epic battle against giants like Škoda, Toyota, and Ford, who will have to hold their ground.
A chosen driver for an ambitious return
Lancia’s grand return to WRC, starting at the Rally2 level, will be with a Frenchman behind the wheel. Yohan Rossel, accompanied by Arnaud Dunand, will be one of the two drivers for the brand, which will enter two Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale in the world championship. The second car will be entrusted to Nikolay Gryazin and his co-driver Konstantin Aleksandrov. This dynamic duo promises to bring a breath of fresh air to the competition.
A team ready to take on the challenge
The team will be registered under the banner Team Lancia Corse HF and will make its debut next month at the legendary Monte-Carlo Rally, with the valuable support of the PH Sport structure, under the direction of Didier Clément. An ideal setting to shine in this new adventure, where every turn could write the story of a long-awaited return.
A track record that speaks for itself
At 30 years old, Yohan Rossel arrives with an impressive track record. French champion, he then shone on the world stage, winning the title in WRC3 in 2021 and becoming the WRC2 vice-world champion this year. His experience and talent will be major assets for Lancia.
The weight of the Lancia legacy
“By discovering Lancia’s pedigree and listening to Miki Biasion, who compares Lancia to Ferrari, one immediately understands that it is a brand that commands respect,” emphasizes the Nîmois. Yohan Rossel, who remains within the Stellantis group by leaving Citroën for Lancia, expresses his pride in joining this emblematic brand. “I am therefore very proud to join Lancia with the same motivation as at the beginning. This new step will give a real boost to my career: a new manufacturer, great ambitions, and the desire to go even further in the project… to win.”
The Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale.
Clear ambitions for the future
Lancia, which will compete against Škoda, Toyota, and Ford in Rally2 next year, has already planned to participate in at least eight rounds of the calendar. A return that could gain more momentum in the coming years, with ambitions that resonate like a rallying cry for rally enthusiasts.
A responsible commitment
“Lancia’s return to global rallying is an important step that we approach with a deep sense of responsibility,” assures Roberta Zerbi, CEO of Lancia. She adds: “Yohan and Nikolay bring distinct perspectives, a modern understanding of the discipline, and the ideal mindset to grow with our project.”
Confidence at the heart of the project
“The Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale has been designed to compete at the highest level, and the work of the Lancia Corse HF team allows us to approach this new chapter with confidence and serenity. See you in Monte-Carlo in January!”
The world of rallying eagerly awaits Lancia’s explosive return. With Yohan Rossel at the helm, fans can expect performances that will leave a mark and restore this brand to the status it deserves. The emotional rollercoaster of rallying is about to begin, and it would be wise not to miss the start.
