2010 Neste Oil Rally Finland: Preview

Mikko Hirvonen won last years 1000 Lakes Rally

The fastest, most exciting rally of the season commences on Thursday. 2010 Neste Oil Rally Finland or the 1000 Lakes Rally as it is appropriately called by rally goers around the world is based in Jyvaskyla the traditional capital of Rally Finland. It is Mikko Hirvonen’s home event and he is proud of winning here in 2009. Can Mikko do it again?

Dani Sordo at Rally Finland

This year, the rally will take place over a period of 2 days rather than the usual 3 days of super specials. The route is almost unchanged from last years only for the addition of 6 new kilometers. In total, 304kms of Finish country roads capable of launching the cars 3-4 feet in the air are always a hit with rally fans.

Now thats what I call a Scandinavian backflip (almost)

Ford will look to fight back after a dismal performance at Bulgaria. Mikko will be keen to win at his home event and so will be Jari Matti as well as Peter Solberg, who is in a good place if the weather stays dry.

A Subaru Impreza WRC launches 2 feet off the ground

This year’s Neste Oil Rally Finland is an extra special event for two reasons, the first is that it’s the 60th anniversary of the event and secondly Juha Matti Pellervo Kankkunen is coming back for a 22nd attempt at his home round of the WRC and will drive the Stobart M-Sport Ford Focus RS WRC.