Rally Sweden is back on the WRC calendar this year, but in a new location, near the city of Umea, after the COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of last year’s event.
The relocation of the event approximately 800km north of its historic location in Karlstad was organized to ensure that riders could race in the snow, after its presence on the course had been rather limited in past editions.
As a result, it also provided a number of new specials for the crews to tackle, producing a thrilling battle that resulted in the victory of Kalle Rovanpera’s Toyota.
The WRC stressed that the move to the north was successful, leading to the signing of a new contract that will ensure the event will remain on the calendar until 2024.
“This agreement secures Sweden’s place in the FIA World Rally Championship for the next two years and protects the future of the WRC’s only pure winter rally,” said Simon Larkin, WRC event director.
“The move north of Umea has proved a resounding success and we thank the people of the Vasterbotten region for the support and warm welcome they have extended to the championship this week.”
Elfyn Evans, Scott Martin, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT Toyota GR Yaris Rally1
Photo by: Toyota Racing
Rally Sweden CEO Glenn Olsson added: “I think we have achieved results above everyone’s expectations. We have had great roads, good weather, good TV images, and many have told us that our stewards they did an amazing job. “
“The FIA, the WRC Promoter and the teams are all satisfied, and they all think it was a perfectly right decision to move to Umea, as the city is a very good fit for a WRC event.”
“To be able to wrap up a weekend like this by being able to say we’ve extended our deal by two years is, of course, absolutely fantastic.”
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