Written by Katie Gregory, Edited by Julia Bissessar
WRC returns to northern Sweden for a special snowy spectacle of speed.
Only three weeks after the opening act, WRC action will return this weekend as the second round of the series heads to snowy Scandinavia. Rally Sweden is the only true winter event on the calendar, and is certainly a fan favourite, promising all-out entertainment.
The rally will have a total of 18 stages centred around the city of Umeå, and will cover over 300km of competitive action. This beloved event will keep its most cherished stages, including Sävar and Brattby. However, giving us novelty as well as familiarity - there will be a number of new stages, with the introduction of Bäck, Andersvattnet, and Kolksele.
Each stage will provide a different element of action, but every one will be similar in terms of their traction (or lack thereof). Little is guaranteed this weekend, but the iciness that awaits our drivers is one clear aspect. To combat the wintry conditions, the crews will utilise studded tyres that guarantee grip no matter how troublesome the track.
This adjustment means drivers will be able to reach shocking speeds around Sweden, and spectacular jumps and magnificent moments of bravery will grace iconic stages such as Sävar and Brattby.
Aside from the picturesque backdrop, the course also promises action in itself. The snow banks and icy passes throughout the route are entirely unforgiving, and will punish any mistakes made with impunity. This means the safest option is to take all the right lines, and rely on efficient pace notes to target a strong result.
As ever, the risk and reward factor here can not be overstated. If drivers get close enough to the snowbanks, they can lean on them to maintain control of their vehicles. However, this makes them vulnerable to momentary misjudgement that could see their weekend unravel entirely - which could leave them wishing they had played it safe.
Toyota as a team will want to play it safe, as they look to maximise their manufacturer’s title points total this weekend. They already have a winner in the midst this season with Sébastien Ogier claiming his tenth win in Monte Carlo and subsequently leading the driver’s championship.
However, Ogier is on a partial 2025 schedule, and will not be competing in Sweden - meaning it is technically Toyota teammate Elfyn Evans who currently leads the championship.
Toyota’s lineup is completed by Kalle Rovanperä, Takamoto Katsuta and Sami Pajari. A strong lineup to say the least, as Rovanperä and Katsuta both have a wealth of knowledge and experience. Pajari will be more than ready to learn from his teammates as this is his first full winter-rally in Rally1 machinery.
Trailing Toyota in the championship, Hyundai will be looking to secure all possible points this weekend. Leading the fight will be reigning WRC champion Thierry Neuville.
The Frenchman was on top-form in Monte Carlo, until an easily avoidable error saw his lead slip away from him entirely. With this in mind, Neuville will look to maximise his point total while staying firmly away from any unnecessary risks.
Hyundai teammate Ott Tänak will also be searching for redemption after a disappointing fifth place finish in Monte Carlo. Despite a strong start, Tänak was a victim of poor tyre choice. This misjudgement will not be a factor this weekend, meaning the Estonian driver can focus on maximising his personal performance.
Hyundai’s lineup will also feature Adrien Fourmaux who secured third place in Monte Carlo. This confidence boost will be imperative going into such an intimidating event, and could give him the momentum he needs for another strong result.
The rally will begin on Thursday evening with one run of Umeå Sprint in the Red Barn Area, which will showcase 5.16km of competitive action. Friday will be the longest and most gruelling day of the weekend, with seven stages across the Swedish countryside - covering 124km.
Saturday will see another seven stages, providing fans with a further 101.96km of entertainment. Sunday will conclude the rally with three stages of 68.78km, with a second loop of Umeå serving the role of Power Stage.
Comments