Korhonen remained within reach of the leaders as the rally got going in earnest with four stages on Friday morning. He arrived at midday service holding fifth place overall.
The top four in the gravel rally consists of three Norwegians – Eyvind Brynildsen, Mads Østberg and Frank Tore Larsen – with Swedish talent Isak Reiersen wedged into third. The leading quartet is tightly packed, separated by just four seconds.
Korhonen, driving a Toyota Rally2, sits eight seconds off the pace of rally leader Brynildsen.
He improved his times over the course of the morning, but was still not able to challenge for a stage win.
“It was a difficult morning loop. I don’t know… we’re losing quite a bit – well, not a huge amount, but we’re still behind,” Korhonen admitted.
“It feels like the driving itself is okay, but of course there are places where I could improve. I don’t think that many guys at the front are pushing flat-out,” he reflected.
Four more stages remain on Friday afternoon after the service break, including the legendary Colins stage, which features the famous jump, Colin’s Crest.
Korhonen is hoping to mount a stronger challenge in the afternoon loop.
“We need to figure something out – either something in my driving style or the car setup. We’ll try changing the car a bit in service and see if that helps,” he said.
