Oliver Solberg Signs Full-Time with Toyota for 2026 WRC
“This is the day I’ve waited my whole life for” – Solberg Oliver Solberg’s rallying dream just became reality.
The 24-year-old Swede has been confirmed as a full-time Toyota Gazoo Racing driver for the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship, stepping into the seat vacated by reigning champion Kalle Rovanperä. It marks a major milestone in Solberg’s career and a bold new chapter for the WRC’s most dominant team.
Solberg will join an all-star Toyota lineup featuring Elfyn Evans, Takamoto Katsuta, Sami Pajari and Sébastien Ogier, all behind the wheel of the formidable GR Yaris Rally1.
While Solberg already made headlines with a stunning one-off Rally1 appearance at Rally Estonia earlier this year, where he took a sensational win, 2026 will be his first full campaign at the sport’s top level. It follows a breakout season in WRC2, where he clinched the championship title with Toyota in the GR Yaris Rally2.
“It’s a pleasure to welcome Oliver to the driver line-up on a full-time basis after the fantastic job he has done driving the GR Yaris Rally2 this year – and, of course, his amazing debut in our Rally1 car in Estonia,” said Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala.
For Solberg, the move is more than just a promotion – it’s the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and passion.
“This year has been absolutely incredible for me as part of the Toyota Gazoo Racing family,” said Solberg. “We achieved our main goal to win the WRC2 championship together and to do a fast and consistent season with the GR Yaris Rally2. Then we got the opportunity to do Estonia in the Rally1 car, which was simply an amazing week.”
“Now I have this chance to come back to the top level of WRC for a full season, so a lot of dreams have come true for me this year and I’m really grateful to be part of this great team. We need to be realistic because we still have a lot to learn with the Rally1 car, but we’re going to have fun and do the best that we can.”
Solberg’s arrival injects fresh energy into Toyota’s already formidable squad. With a mix of youth, experience, and raw speed, the 2026 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet.
