DOLGELLAU driver Elfyn Evans is looking forward to competing again in one of his favourite rallies when the spectacular Rally Finland returns with a new autumn look starting today.

The event’s service park in Jyväskylä is near his Toyota Gazoo Racing team’s headquarters.

The Toyota Yaris WRC has an unbeaten record on Rally Finland after victories in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

The rally was called off in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic, and this year moved back from its normal summer date to ensure that fans can watch the action in the stages.

Sébastien Ogier, who won the event in 2013, has a 44-point lead in the drivers’ standings with teammate Evans his closest rival in second place.

Elfyn said: “Finland is one of my favourite rallies on the calendar and I always enjoy the feeling of driving there. For me it’s actually been over three years since I last competed there, having missed the event in 2019, so I’m really looking forward to being back on those stages.

“At this time of year there will be a few new challenges which will be interesting, with the potential for different weather conditions and the fact we’ll be doing some stages in the dark.

“Our test before the rally will be quite important, as much for getting back up to speed on those roads as for deciding on car setup.

“For myself the drivers’ championship looks more difficult now but our approach won’t change, and I’ll go to Finland trying to do my best like always.”

The smooth gravel stages in the forests of central Finland are known for being the fastest on the WRC calendar, and also for the many large jumps and numerous crests.

The autumn date is set to bring a different complexion with cooler temperatures and an increased likelihood of damp conditions.

The event takes on a more compact form for this year too, with shakedown taking place this morning before the rally starts at lunchtime with the mixed-surface Harju stage in Jyväskylä itself.

Five further stages follow over the rest of the day, with Oittila to take place after sunset.

Saturday features a loop of four stages on famous roads around Jämsä, to be repeated after mid-day service with another run over Harju to round out the day.

Sunday follows a similar format to previous years with two passes over the Laukaa and Ruuhima?ki stages to the east of Jyväskylä.