Finland - SS17: Rovanperä still at full tilt, Evans on a mission

Despite his comfortable lead at the head of the Rally Finland, Kalle Rovanperä continued to attack and set the best time of SS17, ahead of an offensive Elfyn Evans.

Published on 04/08/2024 à 08:30

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We might have thought that Kalle Rovanperä's generous lead at the top of the Rally of Finland was going to calm his enthusiasm this Sunday morning... but that's not knowing the reigning double world champion! The Finn set the best time in the first special of the day, during SS17. If his victory at home is almost assured, barring disaster, the pilot Toyota continues to attack to score points in the Manufacturers' championship.
Above all, with a view to possible team instructions to help Elfyn Evans, Kalle Rovanperä thus positions himself as a backup element. For the moment, the Welshman is doing the job: after his mishaps the day before with his mechanics, Elfyn Evans set the 2nd time just behind his teammate.
Sébastien Ogier also is on the attack for the Manufacturers' championship... but why not also for its Drivers' championship! The Frenchman, author of the 4th fastest time of SS4, finished only 1″4 behind Kalle Rovanperä on this special. Thierry Neuville, more in difficulty with his Hyundai, only set the 6th time.
Little scare for Sami Pajari: the Finn lost control of his Yaris and went into the grass. An exit from the track with no consequences, except on the time: the young rookie lost around fifteen seconds and finished last in Rally1.