Hyundai Motor Company is about to celebrate a decade of duking it out at the Nürburgring 24 Hours – and they’re not just there for the bratwurst. This legendary endurance race, held on the notoriously unforgiving Nürburgring Nordschleife (a track so challenging it’s affectionately/terrifyingly nicknamed “The Green Hell”, is Hyundai’s chosen playground for proving their N performance brand is more than just a pretty letter. And for their 10th consecutive year, from June 21-22, 2025, they’re aiming to make it a fifth straight victory in the TCR class. No pressure, right?
It seems Hyundai’s N division has a bit of a Nürburgring addiction, having used the track as its personal crucible since the brand’s inception. “Our decade-long journey here echoes our commitment to motorsport and high-performance engineering,” says Joon Park, Vice President and Head of N Brand Management Group, probably while polishing a trophy or four. To achieve this “five-peat,” Hyundai is unleashing two i30 Sedan N TCR race cars, piloted by a crack team including seasoned pros Marc Basseng, Manuel Lauck, and Christer Joens, who clearly know their way around a Karussell. Joining the party are Bryson Morris, Michael Louis, and Mason Filippi, adding to the formidable lineup.
But wait, there’s more! Not content with just defending their TCR throne, Hyundai is also debuting the i30 Sedan N1 Cup car in the SP3T class. This move isn’t just about showing off the i30 Sedan N’s performance and durability; it’s about expanding Hyundai N’s one-make race series onto the global stage. Piloting this brave new entrant is a veritable United Nations of speed, featuring Hyundai Junior Driver Youngchan Kim from Korea, 2023 and 2024 N1 class champ Gyumin Kim, reigning TCR Asia Champion Zhang Zhen Dong from China, and 2024 TC America season champion Jeff Ricca from the U.S. Talk about international bragging rights.
Adding an extra layer of awesome to Hyundai’s Nürburgring saga is the return of Robert Wickens. The paraplegic athlete, competing with an innovative hand control system, embodies the “motorsport is open to anyone who dares to dream” spirit that Hyundai is championing. After a hiatus in 2024 due to an accident, his presence is a testament to resilience and the inclusive nature of the sport, heavily supported by Hyundai.
Beyond the thrill of the race, this 25.378-kilometer, day-long battle of speed, skill, and reliability serves a strategic purpose. Hyundai is actively working to establish trophy cup programs in Europe, leveraging the Nürburgring platform to boost its N models beyond current markets and snag new enthusiasts worldwide. They’re not skimping on support either, with partners like Hankook Tyre, Titan 7, and AST Suspension ensuring the N1 Cup car is ready for its fiery baptism.
To mark this ten-year milestone, expect a promotional blitz from Hyundai, complete with engaging content that highlights their knack for blending everyday reliability with pulse-pounding performance. So, as Hyundai gears up for another grueling 24 hours, they’re not just chasing trophies; they’re solidifying a legacy of endurance, innovation, and a global team spirit, all while giving their N models the ultimate shakedown. It’s set to be an exciting weekend for anyone who appreciates the relentless pursuit of not spinning out into the German wilderness.
