Kalle Rovanperä Secto Rally Finland run began with a powerful statement on Friday, as the Finnish driver stormed to the top of the leaderboard on home ground. The reigning two-time world champion ended the day with a 4.9-second advantage, marking his first lead on gravel this season.
The atmosphere in central Finland was electric, with fans lining the flat-out forest roads. Rovanperä, driving his Toyota GR Yaris Rally1, showed blistering pace right from the second stage. He set the fastest time on four of the day’s nine tests, proving he was ready to challenge for the elusive home victory.
Power and Precision on the Stages
The Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 delivered both speed and stability, allowing Rovanperä to push hard despite tricky conditions. With over 500 horsepower and advanced hybrid technology, the car thrived in Finland’s high-speed gravel stages. However, the afternoon runs brought deep ruts and intermittent rain, pushing both man and machine to the limit.
Rovanperä admitted the set-up struggled in the ruts, forcing him to wrestle the car through the most challenging sections. Even so, his aggressive driving style kept him ahead of the chasing pack.
Rivals in Close Pursuit
Thierry Neuville sits second in his Hyundai i20 N, overcoming stages he described as “all flat-out and just taking risks.” Despite a cracked windscreen, Neuville fought back from fifth place to secure his position.
Adrien Fourmaux, also in a Hyundai, is just 2.8 seconds behind, tied with Rovanperä for a stage win on SS8. Takamoto Katsuta celebrated his 50th WRC stage win and is a mere 0.4 seconds further back, while fellow Finn Sami Pajari impressed with two fastest times. Sébastien Ogier, last year’s winner, rounds out the top six after battling less favorable road positions.
Set for a Big Saturday
With only 15.7 seconds separating the top five, Saturday promises even more drama. It’s the rally’s longest day, featuring over 140 kilometers across the Parkkala, Västila, Päijäla, and Leustu stages. For Rovanperä, it’s a chance to extend his lead and move closer to a long-awaited home win.
Summary
Kalle Rovanperä’s strong start at Secto Rally Finland has ignited hopes of a home victory. With rivals breathing down his neck and the longest day ahead, the stage is set for a thrilling continuation of Finland’s most iconic rally.
Disclaimer: All rally standings and timings are accurate as of the end of Friday’s stages and are subject to change as the event progresses.
Source: WRC
