One of many WRC’s most well-known occasions, generally known as the “Gravel Grand Prix”, is ready for a recent look this yr, with greater than half the route modified whereas nearly a 3rd of the mileage can be fully new for drivers.

The ninth spherical of the 13-round WRC season (3-6 August) can be contested over 22 levels, totalling 320.56 kilometres.

The route consists of the return of the Myhinpaa check, which is thought to be one in all rallying’s most iconic levels, final utilized in 2015. In addition to bringing again classic roads, final yr’s levels have additionally undergone plenty of modifications.

One vital change sees the rally start with a ceremonial begin on Wednesday in Jyvaskyla. This may precede the shakedown on Thursday morning and Harju metropolis particular on Thursday night.

Crews will sort out the most important modifications to the route on Friday, which is able to function 9 levels.

The primary forest stage, Laukaa, is a well-recognized title however contains a new begin and jumps, earlier than the return of Myhinpaa, which is able to act as stage 4. Lankamaa, one of many different levels within the opening leg adopts a brand new format this yr, whereas the Halttula check is model new for 2023.

Additionally new for this yr is the Vastila, which can be run twice as a part of Saturday’s scheduled eight levels. The check would be the longest of the rally at 20.65km. The rally will conclude following 4 levels on Sunday.

Thierry Neuville, Martijn Wydaeghe, Hyundai World Rally Workforce Hyundai i20 N Rally1

Photograph by: McKlein / Motorsport Photos

“With an expanded route we’re capable of make it simpler to draw but extra spectators and volunteers to the rally, whereas conserving the normal character of the roads that drivers love,” stated clerk of the course Kai Tarkiainen.

“In addition to some new levels there are acquainted names on the itinerary, however even these have usually been extensively revised, so they are going to be new to lots of the drivers.

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“It is a vital occasion because it’s the primary time in a few years that we’re reaching out to new territories and masking such a large geographical unfold, underlining the enduring recognition of rallying in our nation.”

Ott Tanak gained final yr’s version after seeing off native favorite and present world champion Kalle Rovanpera.