Plans are underway for an ERC-level winter rally in Eastern Finland for 2027–2029, provided that the joint project between the FIA, the Finnish ASN (AKK) and local motorsport clubs in Eastern Finland progresses as expected.
Only a year ago AKK was in discussions with the cities of Rovaniemi and Kemijärvi about organising an ERC round alongside the Arctic Lapland Rally. Rovaniemi, however, did not wish to host an ERC event.
Now AKK has shifted its focus to Eastern Finland. The rally base for the ERC event would be in Savonlinna, which hosted a Finnish Championship round last winter.
According to AKK, talks with the ERC promoter have reached the stage where a preliminary agreement has been signed. Negotiations are now ongoing with municipalities, cities and regional councils in the area.
The ERC rally project is led by Savonlinna-based Arto Tolvanen, who also serves as chairman of the board of AKK Sports Oy.
“Eastern Finland has all the resources to organise an international winter rally event to a high standard. The visibility and marketing potential are enormous, but they require forward planning. We will bring the familiar business platform model from the WRC to the ERC event as well, so we can offer new export and networking opportunities for local companies,” Tolvanen said.
“The event is based on broad cooperation. It requires the efforts of around 2,000 volunteers and strong regional commitment. That is why we hope the municipalities, cities and regional councils in the area will recognise the opportunity and join the project.”
AKK CEO Kimmo Vainio emphasises the strategic value of the initiative for Finnish motorsport.
“Finland has a strong motorsport culture and a good international reputation as a host nation. An ERC-level winter rally supports AKK’s strategic aim of strengthening the position of Finnish motorsport internationally. The event will highlight Finland as a top motorsport country while also supporting Rally Finland,” Vainio said.
Route planning for the potential Eastern Finland ERC rally has already begun. The rally base and the finish would be located in Savonlinna. The overnight halt would take place in Joensuu, with crews travelling there via Varkaus.
The plan includes 12–14 special stages with a total competitive distance of around 180 kilometres.
