The rally will feature something completely unique, as Sunday’s action will take place solely on the legendary Ouninpohja stage. The iconic stage will be run twice during the day in its 24-kilometre version.
Read more: Rally Finland’s route revealed – an exceptional finale: “Ouniday”
Rally Finland deputy clerk of the course Kari Nuutinen and his route planning team started working on next year’s special stages already in autumn. This year’s layout includes new sections and small tweaks compared to last season.
The route also retains plenty of classics, such as Ouninpohja, Myhinpää, Ruuhimäki, and Harju.
“I think the overall package is excellent. I expect the drivers will give it positive feedback as well,” Clerk of the Course Kai Tarkiainen told RallyJournal.com.
Now, Ouninpohja carries special significance, possibly even in the WRC title fight. Under the current points system, ten extra points will be up for grabs on the final day, which will be added on top of the rally’s overall classification points.
On Sunday, separate day points will be awarded to the five fastest drivers using a 5-4-3-2-1 system. The same point structure applies to the Power Stage, which will be the rally’s final test.
“But I think the main feeling will be, ‘Hey, we get to do Ouninpohja twice on Sunday.’ With ten extra points still on the line, it’s an amazing place for them to fight for it,” Tarkiainen added.
“Drivers will likely have mixed feelings about this. Some may think, ‘Did it really have to be Ouninpohja for this?’ because it’s not exactly the easiest stage in the world,” Tarkiainen said.
“On the other hand, as Kalle (Rovanperä) pointed out, it’s a really challenging stage where big decisions can happen, making it a great way to finish the event.”
From the spectators’ and organisers’ perspective, the new rally finale is practical. Tarkiainen said the decision came after careful consideration.
“Fans will definitely appreciate this, as they no longer need to decide whether to go to another stage or spend the whole day at the Power Stage. Now, everyone can come to the Power Stage from the morning – or even the night before,” he concluded.
“Sunday has always been a bit tricky. When there were multiple stages, some were somewhat overshadowed by the Power Stage. Now, no one has to organise anything for empty grandstands.”
