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Posted 4 months ago

Auto Racing General

The Rally Finland - A historical auto racing event revisited

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Rally Finland, often called the "Grand Prix on Gravel," is one of the most iconic events in the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar. Known for its high speeds, jumps, and challenging gravel roads, this rally attracts the world's best drivers and teams. Let's delve into the statistics that make Rally Finland a standout event in the motorsport world.

The 2024 Rally Finland shall be held from 1-4 August, 2024

Historical Highlights

First Held: 1951
Total Editions: 72 (as of 2023)
Most Wins by a Driver: Marcus Grönholm (7 wins)
Most Wins by a Manufacturer: Ford (20 wins)

Speed and Performance

Rally Finland is renowned for its fast stages. The event's average speeds often exceed those of other rallies, making it a favorite among fans and drivers alike.

Highest Average Speed: 126.6 km/h (Jari-Matti Latvala, 2016)
Notable Stage: Ouninpohja, often regarded as one of the most challenging and exhilarating stages in the WRC due to its jumps and high-speed corners.

Recent Trends

In recent years, Rally Finland has seen intense competition and remarkable performances from both seasoned drivers and newcomers.

Recent Winners:
- 2021: Kalle Rovanperä (Toyota)
- 2022: Ott Tänak (Hyundai)
- 2023: Elfyn Evans (Toyota)
Top Teams: Toyota, Hyundai, and M-Sport Ford have been the dominant forces, with Toyota showing a particularly strong performance in the past few years.

National Pride

Finnish drivers have historically excelled at their home rally. The combination of local knowledge, familiarity with gravel roads, and support from passionate fans gives them a competitive edge.

Total Wins by Finnish Drivers: 55 (out of 72 editions)
Notable Finnish Champions: Juha Kankkunen, Tommi Mäkinen, and Jari-Matti Latvala are among the legendary Finnish drivers who have triumphed in this event.

Spectator Appeal

Rally Finland is not just about the competition; it's also a major event for spectators. The picturesque Finnish countryside, combined with the thrilling rally action, draws thousands of fans each year.

Average Attendance: Over 300,000 spectators annually
Economic Impact: The event generates significant revenue for the local economy, with estimates suggesting over €14 million in economic benefits each year.

Safety and Innovation

Safety is a paramount concern in Rally Finland. Over the years, the event has seen numerous innovations aimed at protecting both drivers and spectators.

Safety Improvements: Enhanced safety barriers, better spectator management, and advanced car safety features have all contributed to making the rally safer.
Technological Advances: Modern rally cars are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced telemetry, real-time data analysis, and improved suspension systems, allowing for better performance and safety.