Rally Finland

{{See also|Arctic Rally}}

This rally began to gain importance in the 1970s, and local heroes such as Hannu Mikkola, Markku Alén, Timo Salonen, Tommi Mäkinen and Marcus Grönholm are the most successful names at this rally, and Swedish drivers such as Stig Blomqvist also found success at this rally. The difficulty of this rally for non-Nordic drivers made notable competitors such as Walter Röhrl (who never competed at this rally) and Miki Biasion (who only competed at this rally twice in his 15-year career) make rare or no appearances at this rally.

File:Timo Korpivaara - 1956 Rally Finland.jpg 19 driven in 1956]]

Rally Finland was started as a quickly improvised qualifier event for the Monte Carlo Rally; thirty Finnish drivers wanted to take part in Monte Carlo, but only 14 fit within the quotas on Finns and Swedes.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title="Matkailuajosta" Euroopanmestaruusralliksi | page=21 | date=18 August 1967 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1967/18_8_1967_sivu21.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606180109/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1967/18_8_1967_sivu21.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} Previously, the entries had been decided in the Hanko Run in Southern Finland.{{Cite web | title=Desire for World Class Rallying | url=http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/en/history/desireforworldclassrallying/ | work=Neste Oil Rally Finland | access-date=1 December 2011 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111103060629/http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/en/history/desireforworldclassrallying/ | archive-date=3 November 2011 }} The regulations in this race were not close to those of the Monte Carlo Rally, leading to a demand for a Monte Carlo type of rally in Finland. In July 1951, Pentti Barck's proposal for an annual competition in Jyväskylä was accepted. The first-ever rally began on 1 September 1951 as Jyväskylän Suurajot (Jyväskylä Grand Prix). 26 entrants tackled the 1,700 kilometre (1,060 mi) route that stretched to Rovaniemi in Lapland, through Kokkola and Oulu, and back to the rally headquarters in Jyväskylä.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Jyväskylän suurajojen ensimmäinen lähtö tapahtui eilen aamulla jo klo 5 | page=2 | date=2 September 1951 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1951/pdf/02_09_1951_sivu2.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100815222334/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1951/pdf/02_09_1951_sivu2.pdf | archive-date=15 August 2010 }} The winner Arvo Karlsson, driving an Austin Atlantic, had accumulated the least penalty points and had been the closest to the target times throughout the route and the special tests involving hillclimbing and acceleration.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=A. Karlsson ja H. Korppoo selvisivät 1. miinuksella Jyväskylän Suurajoissa | page=1 | date=3 September 1951 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1951/pdf/03_09_1951_etusivu.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100821140819/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1951/pdf/03_09_1951_etusivu.pdf | archive-date=21 August 2010 }}

File:Osmo Kalpala - 1956 Rally Finland.jpeg during the 1956 rally.]]

The 1952 event included Helsinki as an alternative starting point and the field expanded to 48 entries.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Viime yönä alkaneeseen Jyväskylän suurajoon... | page=8 | date=13 September 1952 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1952/pdf/13_09_1952_sivu8.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140817030831/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1952/pdf/13_09_1952_sivu8.pdf | archive-date=17 August 2014 }} Eino Elo was the only driver to finish the route and the acceleration and braking tests without penalty points.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Toiset J:kylän suurajot voitti Elo Nuortila "puhtaalla pelillä" | page=Back page | date=15 September 1952 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1952/pdf/15_09_1952_takasivu.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140817031022/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1952/pdf/15_09_1952_takasivu.pdf | archive-date=17 August 2014 }} In 1953, Oulu was added as a third starting point, and 66 crews started the 2,200 kilometre course in two-minute intervals.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Jyväskylän Suurajot alkoivat eilen | page=9 | date=12 September 1953 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1953/pdf/12_09_1953_sivu9.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809085659/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1953/pdf/12_09_1953_sivu9.pdf | archive-date=9 August 2014 }} The 1954 running of the rally saw the introduction of the international name "The Rally of the Thousand Lakes".{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ajajat taivalta taittamassa | page=1 | date=21 August 1954 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1954/21_08_1954_etusivu.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140418220314/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1954/21_08_1954_etusivu.pdf | archive-date=18 April 2014 }} There were now eleven starting cities, one of which was Sundsvall in neighbouring Sweden.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Alkuaikojen leppoisa matkailuajo muuttunut tallien kovaksi kisaksi | page=22 | date=20 August 1970 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/20_8_1970_sivu22.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816023439/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/20_8_1970_sivu22.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} In 1955, the event became increasingly closer to the format of a modern rally competition; the number of special stages was increased to eleven, marking the highest amount in any European rally.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Jyväskylän V Suurajot alkoivat eilen | page=Back page | date=20 August 1955 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1955/20_08_1955%20takasivu.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140418221010/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1955/20_08_1955%20takasivu.pdf | archive-date=18 April 2014 }} Elo and Peugeot became the first two-time winners of the event. The 1956 rally featured 19 stages totaling {{convert|1800|km|mi}}.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Jyväskylän Suurajot alkoivat | page=1 | date=18 August 1956 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1956/18_08_1956%20etusivu.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809094109/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1956/18_08_1956%20etusivu.pdf | archive-date=9 August 2014 }}

In 1957, the rally had a record number of entries from foreign countries and the organisers developed a sign language that marshals could use to communicate with drivers.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Kansainväliset huippuajajat aloittavat tänään Harjulla kamppailunsa voitoista | page=9 | date=16 August 1957 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1957/16_08_1957_sivu%209.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809094131/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1957/16_08_1957_sivu%209.pdf | archive-date=9 August 2014 }} The event also started the Finland-Sweden international in rallying, comparable to the traditional Finland-Sweden athletics international. Sweden's Erik Carlsson drove his Saab 93 to victory as the first non-Finn. In the 1958 1000 Lakes, documented by a 20th Century Fox film crew,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Kalpala-Kalpala ylivoimainen voittaja Suurajoissa | page=2 | date=25 August 1958 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1958/25_08_1958%20sivu%202.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809094754/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1958/25_08_1958%20sivu%202.pdf | archive-date=9 August 2014 }} seven drivers crashed out on the same curve on a foggy night.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Suurajo myös metsään | page=9 | date=24 August 1958 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1958/24_08_1958%20sivu%209.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140809094749/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1958/24_08_1958%20sivu%209.pdf | archive-date=9 August 2014 }} Brothers Osmo and Eino Kalpala took a record third win in an Alfa Romeo Giulietta TI, which marked the first victory for an Italian car. In 1959, the 1000 Lakes Rally was included in the European Rally Championship calendar.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Suurajot ensi kertaa EM-osakilpailurallina | page=22 | date=18 August 1967 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1967/18_8_1967_sivu22.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606172802/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1967/18_8_1967_sivu22.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} It was also one of the four rallies that counted towards the first-ever Finnish Rally Championship.

File:Kinnunen, Söderström and Lampinen - 1964 Rally Finland.jpg and Bengt Söderström during the Hippos circuit stage in 1964]]

At the 1960 1000 Lakes Rally, nearly half of the 85 entries were from foreign countries. A deaf-mute road worker was hit by Germany's future European champion Eugen Böhringer in what was the event's first fatal accident.{{cite news | first1=Ari | last1=Mäntylä | first2=Tuula | last2=Puranen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ihmiset eivät uskoneet puhetta | page=12 | date=27 August 1995 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1995/27_8_1995_sivu12.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530231726/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1995/27_8_1995_sivu12.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} Although the rally ended with Finland's Carl-Otto Bremer leading home a Saab triple win,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Pari Bremer – Lampi löi Carlsson – Simonssonin | page=2 | date=22 August 1960 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1960/22_8_1960_sivu2.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100815223019/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1960/22_8_1960_sivu2.pdf | archive-date=15 August 2010 }} the best Finn had been only tenth after the opening Harju hill stage.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=J:kylän Suurajoilla yleisömenestys | page=9 | date=20 August 1960 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1960/20_8_1960_sivu9.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100815222349/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1960/20_8_1960_sivu9.pdf | archive-date=15 August 2010 }} Later in the 1960s, the 1000 Lakes was dominated by the first generation of "Flying Finns" of rallying. Rauno Aaltonen beat Pauli Toivonen to the win in 1961,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Suomalaisille kolmoisvoitto XI Jyväskylän Suurajoissa | page=9 | date=21 August 1961 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1961/21_08_1961%20sivu%209.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606163140/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1961/21_08_1961%20sivu%209.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} while Toivonen took the honours in 1962.{{Cite web|url=http://www.citroenracing.com/en/2014/news/wrc-news/30408/cleared-for-immediate-take-off-for-the-second-half-of-the-season/|title=Citroën and rally Finland: four wins since 1962|publisher=Citroën Racing|date=25 July 2014|access-date=27 July 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140731011433/http://www.citroenracing.com/en/2014/news/wrc-news/30408/cleared-for-immediate-take-off-for-the-second-half-of-the-season/|archive-date=31 July 2014}} Esko Keinänen and Rainer Eklund finished second in a Škoda Felicia.{{cite magazine | title = Böhringer på väg mot EM? |trans-title=Böhringer on his way to a European Championship? | pages = 6–7 | language = sv | editor-last = Björklund | editor-first = Bengt | location = Lerum, Sweden | magazine = Illustrerad Motor Sport | number = 9 | date = September 1962 }} A record 104 drivers started the 1962 event.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Jyväskylän XII Suurajot alkoivat | page=11 | date=18 August 1962 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1962/18_8_1962_sivu11.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606155519/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1962/18_8_1962_sivu11.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} Simo Lampinen, barely twenty years old, became the first driver to take consecutive wins, finishing ahead of Sweden's Tom Trana in 1963 and 1964.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title="Koululainen" voitti Suurajot | page=9 | date=19 August 1963 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1963/19_8_1963_sivu9.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606175515/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1963/19_8_1963_sivu9.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }}{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Simo Lampinen teki suurajohistoriaa viemällä toisen peräkkäisen voiton | page=8 | date=17 August 1964 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1964/17_08_1964%20sivu%208.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606171937/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1964/17_08_1964%20sivu%208.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }}

File:Timo Mäkinen - 1965 Rally Finland (cropped).jpg drives a Mini in 1965.]]

Interest in the 1000 Lakes Rally continued to grow. It became known as the best organised rally competition after the Monte Carlo Rally,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Vain 26 autoa lähti 14 vuotta sitten Suurajoihin – tänään starttaa reitille yli 100 autoa enemmän | pages=12–13 | date=20 August 1965 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1965/20_8_1965_sivu13.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606152154/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1965/20_8_1965_sivu13.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} and as Finland's biggest sporting event by audience count.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Yleisömäärät pikataipaleilla ovat tuhansissa | page=9 | date=23 August 1965 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1965/23_8_1965_sivu9.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606175604/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1965/23_8_1965_sivu9.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} As practice had been allowed for 1965, speeds became higher than ever. These factors brought several challenges to the organisers. Spectators lined up the edge of the course and sometimes even blocked the road.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Yleisön käyttäytyminen pikataipaleilla on holtitonta | page=12 | date=16 August 1964 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1964/16_08_1964%20sivu%2012.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606195629/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1964/16_08_1964%20sivu%2012.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} One spectator was killed in a crash in 1965. 1,200 officials were appointed for the 1965 event,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=1200 toimitsijaa | page=11 | date=21 August 1965 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1965/21_8_1965_sivu11.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606171918/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1965/21_8_1965_sivu11.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} over 2,000 for 1967 and over 3,000 for 1968.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Järjestelykoneisto on paisunut vuosi vuodelta | page=17 | date=18 August 1967 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1967/18_8_1967_sivu17.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606164646/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1967/18_8_1967_sivu17.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }}{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Suurajot vaativat suurmiehistönkin | page=19 | date=16 August 1968 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1968/16_8_1968_sivu19.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606163229/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1968/16_8_1968_sivu19.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }} As the organisers and the gravel roads could not handle fields close to 200 cars, only 130 of the 173 entries qualified for the start in 1965. In 1966, entries were only accepted from drivers who had finished in at least three rallies.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ensi vuonna tulee uuden tyyppinen Suurajo | page=10 | date=19 August 1966 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1966/19_8_1966_sivu10.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606151051/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1966/19_8_1966_sivu10.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }}

Along with the number of entrants, the percentage of retirements grew steadily throughout the decade, and 1966 saw nearly half of the 115 drivers fail to finish the 26 stages. Timo Mäkinen, who had already won in Monte Carlo, drove his Mini Cooper S to victory in 1965 and continued the success in 1966. In 1967, he beat Lampinen to the win by eight seconds despite driving the high-speed Ouninpohja stage with his bonnet open. His hat-trick of wins was followed by Hannu Mikkola's successes in a Ford Escort TC. In 1968, Castrol produced a film titled Flying Finns, documenting the duel between Mäkinen and Mikkola. The 1969 rally saw the circuit and street stages, which favoured faster sports cars and factory team drivers, dropped from the programme.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=300 kilometriä pikataipaleita Suurajojen 1610 km:n reitillä | page=20 | date=15 August 1969 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1969/15_8_1969%20sivu20.pdf | access-date=27 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606145834/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1969/15_8_1969%20sivu20.pdf | archive-date=6 June 2013 }}

File:Markku Alén - 1978 Rally Finland.jpg drives a Fiat 131 Abarth]]

The 1970 1000 Lakes had a record 52 stages, which totaled 460 competitive kilometres.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Kaasujalka kovalle koetukselle: Pikataipaleita 460 kilometriä | page=20 | date=20 August 1970 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/20_8_1970_sivu20.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816023430/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/20_8_1970_sivu20.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} An estimated audience of 350,000–500,000 spectators watched Mikkola match Mäkinen's feat of three wins in a row.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Yleisö on oppinut | page=8 | date=24 August 1970 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/24_8_1970_sivu8.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816023543/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/24_8_1970_sivu8.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} However, the event suffered a drop in the number of foreign entries, which the international press attributed to the difficulty of defeating the Finns on their own roads.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Pysyvätkö ulkolaiset poissa Suurajoista? | page=9 | date=24 August 1970 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/24_8_1970_sivu9.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100821140833/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1970/24_8_1970_sivu9.pdf | archive-date=21 August 2010 }} In 1971, the rally was won by a Swedish driver for the third time; Stig Blomqvist finished well ahead of Tapio Rainio and Markku Alén.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ruotsalaisten toiveunesta totuus | page=8 | date=23 August 1971 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1971/23_08_1971%20sivu%208.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523174322/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1971/23_08_1971%20sivu%208.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} The 1972 event increased the length of special stages to almost 700 km.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Reitti: 1570 km pitkä "sitruunapuristin" | page=15 | date=3 August 1972 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1972/3_8_1972_sivu15.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523135732/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1972/3_8_1972_sivu15.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} The traditional Harju hill stage was left out of the route as Jyväskylä had banned racing in the city area.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Harjun mäkikoe on historiaa | page=17 | date=3 August 1972 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1972/3_8_1972_sivu17.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523191029/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1972/3_8_1972_sivu17.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }}

File:Ari Vatanen - 1978 Rally Finland.jpg with a Ford Escort RS1800 in 1978]]

The 1000 Lakes was not among the five European rallies guaranteed a spot in the inaugural World Rally Championship calendar.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Viisi rallia kilpailee kolmesta jäljelläolevasta MM-kilpailusta | page=22 | date=3 August 1972 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1972/3_8_1972_sivu22.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523180204/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1972/3_8_1972_sivu22.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} It competed for the remaining three Europe-based entries with the Coupe des Alpes (Alpine Rally), Österreichische Alpenfahrt (Austrian Alpine Rally), Rally Poland and Rallye de Portugal. The number of rallies in the 1973 season was eventually expanded to 13 and only Coupe des Alpes was dropped. The 1973 1000 Lakes Rally ended with Ford's Timo Mäkinen becoming the first driver to win the event four times, and the first Finn to win a WRC round. Alén finished second in a Volvo and future Formula One driver Leo Kinnunen third in a Porsche.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Timolle helppo voitto Koivakkalan jälkeen | page=8 | date=6 August 1973 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1973/6_8_1973_sivu8.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523175243/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1973/6_8_1973_sivu8.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} The world championship status had brought back a strong international field of about 50 teams from 13 different countries.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Suurajot rallataan ensi kertaa MM-osakilpailuna | page=22 | date=2 August 1973 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1973/2_8_1973_sivu22.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523145741/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1973/2_8_1973_sivu22.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} The 1974 event was marred by the first fatal accident for a competitor in the World Rally Championship, after co-driver Seppo Jämsä died of injuries sustained in a crash in Ouninpohja.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Reijo Nygren viides uhri | page=20 | date=28 August 1983 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1983/28_8_1983_sivu20.pdf | access-date=29 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1983/28_8_1983_sivu20.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }}

The rally route became a secret again in 1975, and pre-event practice was heavily limited.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Salainen raskaus – hidas esikoinen | page=18 | date=28 August 1975 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1975/28_8_1975_sivu18.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523154855/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1975/28_8_1975_sivu18.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} Mikkola drove to a record fifth victory and Toyota became the first Japanese manufacturer to win the event. The 1977 and 1978 rallies were, in addition to the WRC, part of the FIA Cup for Rally Drivers, the predecessor to the drivers' world championship. In 1978, the course stretched to Kuopio and as a result 25 of the 45 special stages were new.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ratamestarin erikoisannostus: 'Savustuksen' kautta Kurjalaan | page=22 | date=24 August 1978 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1978/24_8_1978_sivu22.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523161247/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1978/24_8_1978_sivu22.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} The 1979 1000 Lakes raised the highest number of accepted entries to 150, and all 134 competitors could start the rally.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ralli rysäytti hotellit täyteen | page=1 | date=24 August 1979 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1979/24_8_1979_etusivu.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523111312/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1979/24_8_1979_etusivu.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} World championship points were now awarded for drivers as well as for manufacturers. Fiat's Alén collected most by taking his third win in the event, ahead of Ari Vatanen and eventual champion Björn Waldegård.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Alen taitaa sorarännit | page=11 | date=27 August 1979 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1979/27_8_1979_sivu11.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523165551/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1979/27_8_1979_sivu11.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }}

File:Peugeot205T16.jpg's Peugeot 205 T16 E2 of the 1986 event]]

For the 1980 season, the 1000 Lakes Rally lost its status as a world championship event for manufacturers,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ranskalaista sympatiaa | page=11 | date=1 September 1980 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1980/1_9_1980_sivu11.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816023557/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1980/1_9_1980_sivu11.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} running for the first and last time only as a world drivers' championship event. The rally saw the return of the short Harju asphalt stage held in the center of Jyväskylä.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Harju herättää perinteitä | page=14 | date=30 August 1980 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1980/29_8_1980_sivu14.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816023609/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1980/29_8_1980_sivu14.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} Although the rally became the first in the world to issue action and safety instructions in 1980,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Jyväskylän rallin merkkipaalut 1951–2000 | page=28 | date=22 August 2001 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2001/20010822_28.pdf | access-date=10 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2001/20010822_28.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} several serious accidents marred the event in the early 1980s. At the 1981 rally, Austrian driver Franz Wittmann lost control of his Audi Quattro after the finish line of the fourth stage and crashed into five end-of-stage officials.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Suru avasi Suurajot | page=12 | date=29 August 1981 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1981/29_8_1981_sivu12.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1981/29_8_1981_sivu12.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} Raul Falin, the chairman of AKK-Motorsport, died of his injuries soon after reaching the hospital. In 1983, Pekka Mällinen slid off the road on a fast curve, rolled twice and crashed into a thick pine tree. The accident killed his co-driver Reijo Nygren. At the 1984 rally, British driver Julian Roderick lost control of his car on a popular spectator area in the Humalamäki jumpers.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Rallin ylle tumma varjo | page=17 | date=25 August 1984 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1984/25_8_1984_sivu17.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1984/25_8_1984_sivu17.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} He rolled his car several times and hit a wall of people who had been spectating in a forbidden area. Along with Roderick and his co-driver, nine spectators suffered non-critical injuries.

File:1985 Audi Sport Quattro S1.jpg used by Hannu Mikkola during tests for the 1985 rally]]

Although the 1000 Lakes continued to be dominated by Nordic drivers, David Richards became the third British co-driver to celebrate the win in 1981. In 1982, the pre-rally scrutineering was moved to the newly built Jyväskylän jäähalli (Jyväskylä Ice Hall).{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Vauhtiluvat myönnettiin | page=18 | date=27 August 1982 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1982/27_8_1982_sivu18.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1982/27_8_1982_sivu18.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} All over 150 contestants passed the inspection. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden arrived to follow the event and a record 450 reporters were present.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Tieto kulkee | page=17 | date=28 August 1982 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1982/28_8_1982_sivu17.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1982/28_8_1982_sivu17.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} Dominant Audi took a one-two with its factory drivers Hannu Mikkola and Stig Blomqvist, with team orders keeping them in their positions for the last half of the race.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Mikkolan kuudes kerta | trans-title = Mikkola's sixth time | page=12 | date=30 August 1982 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1982/30_8_1982_sivu12.pdf | access-date=28 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1982/30_8_1982_sivu12.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }}{{cite magazine | title = Hoppfullt och avslaget | trans-title = Airborne and flat | ref = TVn19 | language = sv | magazine = Teknikens Värld | publisher = Specialtidningsförlaget AB | location = Stockholm, Sweden | pages = 5–7 | date = 1982-09-08 | issue = 19 | volume = 34 | first = Michael | last = Åhman }} The 1983 rally featured a field of 180 cars, over a hundred of which failed to make it to the finish.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Seitsemäs seppele | trans-title = The seventh wreath | page=14 | date=29 August 1983 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1983/29_8_1983_sivu14.pdf | access-date=29 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1983/29_8_1983_sivu14.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} Mikkola edged out Blomqvist to extend the event record to a still-standing seven wins. Mikkola's time on the {{convert|24.5|km|mi|adj=on}} Ouninpohja stage was 11:56; 52 seconds faster than his time just four years ago.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ouninpohja sen todistaa | page=15 | date=29 August 1983 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1983/29_8_1983_sivu15.pdf | access-date=29 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1983/29_8_1983_sivu15.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} In 1984, over half a million spectators were expected and about 5,000 marshals were appointed.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Turvallisuuspäällikön vetoomus: Häiriköt kuriin | page=16 | date=24 August 1984 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1984/24_8_1984_sivu16.pdf | access-date=29 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140420090722/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1984/24_8_1984_sivu16.pdf | archive-date=20 April 2014 }} Vatanen won the event and Peugeot continued their success in the last two Group B years, as Timo Salonen drove to victory in 1985 and 1986.

The 1985 event marked the first time the drivers' world championship had been decided in Finland; Salonen captured the title with three rallies to go.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Timo Salonen ralliteiden kuningas | page=1 | date=26 August 1985 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1985/26_8_1985_etusivu.pdf | access-date=29 November 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1985/26_8_1985_etusivu.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} In 1986, the route was modified to bring the average speeds closer to the FISA limit of 110 km/h.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Korvat tarkkana | page=17 | date=8 September 1986 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1986/8_9_1986_sivu17.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1986/8_9_1986_sivu17.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} The top drivers exceeded the limit almost regularly, but FISA had given the organisers a 10 percent flexibility. Combined with their dislike for the slower Group A cars, drivers were highly critical of the organisers for artificially slowing the rally in 1987.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Säännöt ovat latistaneet MM-ralleja | page=14 | date=31 August 1987 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1987/31_8_1987_sivu14.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1987/31_8_1987_sivu14.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} A record 214 drivers signed up for the 1988 event and 200 were qualified to start by the organisers.{{cite news | first=Ari | last=Mäntylä | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ralli palannut eliittiurheiluksi | page=26 | date=16 August 2000 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s26.pdf | access-date=10 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816024542/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s26.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} Albert II, Prince of Monaco arrived to follow the event and was scheduled to drive a few stages in an ex-Alén Lancia.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Monacon Albert kokeilee suurajojen sorarännejä | page=3 | date=26 August 1988 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1988/26_8_1988_sivu3.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1988/26_8_1988_sivu3.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} In one of the tightest duels in the event's history, Toyota's Juha Kankkunen led Lancia's Markku Alén by just two seconds after 33 of the 39 stages.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Sääli, sanoi Alen | page=12 | date=29 August 1988 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1988/29_8_1988_sivu12.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1988/29_8_1988_sivu12.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} Kankkunen's engine failed on the next stage, and Alén became the first driver to win the same WRC round six times. As a taste of what was to come, only two Finnish drivers made it into top ten. In 1989, Mikael Ericsson of Sweden drove to victory as the first non-Finn in 18 years.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ericsson piti kärkipaikkansa | page=3 | date=28 August 1989 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1989/28_8_1989_sivu3.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1989/28_8_1989_sivu3.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }}

File:SainzFinland1996.JPG, the first non-Nordic winner behind the wheel of an Gr.A Escort RS Cosworth in 1996]]

The 40th anniversary event in 1990 featured a route stretching to Tampere and gathered a large audience, roughly estimated at 450,000–500,000.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Katsojia 500 000...? | page=13 | date=27 August 1990 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1990/27_8_1990_sivu13.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816024528/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1990/27_8_1990_sivu13.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} Toyota's Spanish driver Carlos Sainz became the first competitor outside Finland and Sweden to win the rally.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Sainzista suurajosankari | page=3 | date=27 August 1990 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1990/27_8_1990_sivu3.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816024533/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1990/27_8_1990_sivu3.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} He had been slightly injured earlier during the week, when he crashed during a night-time practice run in the Vesala stage.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Sainzin harjoitusauto syöksyi tieltä | page=19 | date=24 August 1990 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1990/24_8_1990_sivu19.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816024215/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1990/24_8_1990_sivu19.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} Sainz's feat was soon repeated; Didier Auriol, who had become the first Frenchman on the podium in his debut in 1988,{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Fantastista, hoki Auriol | page=13 | date=29 August 1988 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1988/29_8_1988_sivu13.pdf | access-date=1 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024233/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1988/29_8_1988_sivu13.pdf | archive-date=9 September 2015 }} beat his Lancia teammate Kankkunen to the win in 1992.{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Valtikka vaihtui Auriolille | page=10 | date=31 August 1992 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1992/31_8_1992_sivu10.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530220724/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1992/31_8_1992_sivu10.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} Kankkunen took his second win in three years in 1993. In 1994, the rally was renamed to Neste 1000 Lakes Rally as Neste became the title sponsor.{{Cite web | title=Rally of the Thousand Lakes | url=http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/en/history/rallyofthethousandlakes/ | work=Neste Oil Rally Finland | access-date=8 December 2011 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125111152/http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/en/history/rallyofthethousandlakes/ | archive-date=25 January 2012 }} A new super special stage was built at a slope of the Himos ski centre in Jämsä and it quickly proved popular among spectators.{{cite news | first=Pentti | last=Rytkönen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Voi tätä rallihullua kansaa! | page=13 | date=28 August 1994 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1994/28_8_1994_sivu13.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530233801/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1994/28_8_1994_sivu13.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }}

File:Kankkunen1997.jpg

Due to the WRC round rotation from 1994 to 1996, the 1995 Rally Finland was only part of the 2-litre World Cup (better known as Formula 2). As a result, audience numbers dropped.{{cite news | first=Kanerva | last=Eskola | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Katsojamäärät ovat pudonneet | page=13 | date=27 August 1995 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1995/27_8_1995_sivu13.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530233926/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1995/27_8_1995_sivu13.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} The event was also overshadowed by a fatal accident.{{cite news | first=Ari | last=Mäntylä | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Hassin turma synkisti Suurajot | page=12 | date=27 August 1995 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1995/27_8_1995_sivu12.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530231726/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1995/27_8_1995_sivu12.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} During the rainy and windy Hassi stage, a 20-year-old spectator did not hear the zero car driven by Bruno Thiry coming. Although Thiry was able to dodge into a ditch, his car bounced back on the road and hit the woman at {{convert|100|-|120|km/h|mph}}. She flew {{convert|50|m|ft}} down the road and succumbed to her injuries within minutes. Next year in Harju, Danish driver Karsten Richardt carried far too much speed into a right-hander.{{cite news | first=Ilkka | last=Kulmala | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Miten kaikki tapahtui? | page=16 | date=25 August 1996 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/25_8_1996_sivu16.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530225047/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/25_8_1996_sivu16.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} After hitting a bump and getting airborne, he missed the curve and went straight, hitting a road sign and a concrete barrier. Uncontrollably airborne, his car eventually plunged into the crowd {{convert|70|m|ft}} off the course. 29 spectators were brought to the hospital.{{cite news | first=Tuula | last=Puranen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Belgialaiskatsoja menehtyi sairaalassa | page=1 | date=25 August 1996 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/25_8_1996_etusivu.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530233044/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/25_8_1996_etusivu.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} 45-year-old Belgian tourist Ludo Briers was operated on within 38 minutes, but his injuries soon proved fatal. Before being hit, Briers had pushed one spectator to safety and protected another with his body.{{cite news | first=Tuula | last=Puranen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Menehtynyt pelasti kaksi henkeä | page=15 | date=25 August 1996 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/25_8_1996_sivu15.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530231646/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/25_8_1996_sivu15.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} In a subdued celebration, drivers from Central Finland manned the podium; Tommi Mäkinen took his third win in a row, ahead of Kankkunen and Jarmo Kytölehto.{{cite news | first=Ilkka | last=Kulmala | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Keski-Suomen kopla vei kaiken | page=3 | date=27 August 1996 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/27_8_1996_sivu3.pdf | access-date=8 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130531000053/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1996/27_8_1996_sivu3.pdf | archive-date=31 May 2013 }}

In 1997, AKK Sports, the marketing company of AKK-Motorsport, took over as the organiser and the WRC teams awarded the event for its safety efforts.{{Cite web | title=Towards the New Era | url=http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/en/history/towardsthenewera/ | work=Neste Oil Rally Finland | access-date=9 December 2011 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120101221035/http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/en/history/towardsthenewera/ | archive-date=1 January 2012 }} A new super special stage was built at Hippos, along with a VIP village for 1,600 people.{{cite news | first=Jorma | last=Rahkonen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Kirkko? Sirkus? Ei vaan VIP-kylän teltta | page=17 | date=29 August 1997 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1997/29_8_1997_sivu17.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530235840/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1997/29_8_1997_sivu17.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} In the following year, teams voted the event as the Rally of the Year. On his way to a record third consecutive title, Mäkinen set a record with his fifth Rally Finland win in a row.{{cite news | first=Ari | last=Mäntylä | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Valtakuntansa vankka valtias | page=11 | date=24 August 1998 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1998/24_8_1998_sivu11.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530225223/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1998/24_8_1998_sivu11.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} Entry lists included ice hockey star and auto racing enthusiast Teemu Selänne, who finished 33rd in 1997 and 24th in 1998.{{cite news | first=Jorma | last=Rahkonen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Teemu pääsi maaliin saakka | page=15 | date=1 September 1997 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1997/1_9_1997_sivu15.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530231358/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1997/1_9_1997_sivu15.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }}{{cite news | first=Ari | last=Mäntylä | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Jokinen selätti Selänteen omistaman auton rusinaksi | page=12 | date=24 August 1998 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1998/24_8_1998_sivu12.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530231710/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1998/24_8_1998_sivu12.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} The event also attracted environmental criticism throughout the decade; protests gathered about a hundred participants in 1997 and two hundred in 1998.{{cite news | first=Jorma | last=Rahkonen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Mielenosoitus sujui sopuisasti | page=21 | date=31 August 1997 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1997/31_8_1997_sivu21.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530235145/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1997/31_8_1997_sivu21.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }}{{cite news | first=Maarit | last=Lantto-Tolvanen | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Rallin vastustajat valtasivat kadun | page=3 | date=23 August 1998 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1998/23_8_1998_sivu3.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530221704/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1998/23_8_1998_sivu3.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} In a 1997 study by the University of Jyväskylä, partly funded by AKK, Jyväskylä and Rally Finland, the environmental impact was estimated to be small; the noise from the rally cars, helicopters and speakers was considered the biggest harm.{{cite news | first=Teijo | last=Kuusela | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Vastustajat keskittäneet huomionsa vääriin asioihin | page=31 | date=16 August 2000 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s31.pdf | access-date=10 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816024553/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s31.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} In 1999, Harju was dropped from the route and extra points were awarded to the three fastest drivers of the Ruuhimäki stage, which was televised live by Yle to millions around the world.{{cite news | first=Teemu | last=Palokangas | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Rallista säännöllistä televisioviihdettä | page=27 | date=18 August 1999 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1999/0818s27.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530221905/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1999/0818s27.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }}{{cite news | first=Teemu | last=Palokangas | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Ahdasta tulee takuuvarmasti | page=29 | date=18 August 1999 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1999/0818s29.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530222850/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1999/0818s29.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }}

File:Petter Solberg - Rally Finland 2009.JPG on the Killeri stage]]

File:Ss1 7tm.jpg with a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo at the 2001 Rally Finland]]

After years of rumours of the rally moving from Jyväskylä to Southern Finland for better accommodations, Tampere announced its intention to host the event after 1999.{{cite news | first=Ari | last=Mäntylä | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Tampere peikkona jatkoneuvotteluissa | page=26 | date=18 August 1999 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1999/0818s26.pdf | access-date=9 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530230016/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1999/0818s26.pdf | archive-date=30 May 2013 }} Jyväskylä retained the event but the headquarters were relocated to the large newly built Paviljonki congress and trade fair centre.{{cite news | first=Tuomas | last=Heikkilä | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Haikeat jäähyväiset Laajavuorelle | page=26 | date=16 August 2000 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s26.pdf | access-date=10 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816024542/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s26.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} Previously, Laajavuori had served as the competition centre for 30 years. The Hippos super special was dropped in favour of a similar stage at the Killeri harness racing track by the lake Killerjärvi, where the audience had better visibility of the competing cars.{{cite news | first=Teijo | last=Kuusela | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Killerillä VIP-kylä ja kahtena iltana huimia kaksintaisteluita | page=36 | date=16 August 2000 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s36.pdf | access-date=10 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816030434/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2000/000816s36.pdf | archive-date=16 August 2010 }} The 50th running of the Rally Finland in 2000 was won by Peugeot's Marcus Grönholm, who would go on to dominate the event. In 2002, Englishman Richard Burns challenged teammate Grönholm to become the third non-Nordic competitor to win the rally, but broke his car on a jump in Ouninpohja while leading the event.{{cite news | first=Ari | last=Mäntylä | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title=Kolmas kerta. Mitäs tuosta. | page=17 | date=12 August 2002 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2002/KE_20020812_17.pdf | access-date=10 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023031900/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/2002/KE_20020812_17.pdf | archive-date=23 October 2013 }} The next foreign winner was Ford's Estonian driver Markko Märtin in the following year. For the first time in the history of the event, no Finnish driver made it onto the podium.{{Cite web | first=Matt | last=Beer | title=Ogier claims first Rally Finland win | work=Autosport | url=http://asia.eurosport.com/wrc/finland-rally/2013/ogier-claims-first-rally-finland-win_sto3868728/story.shtml | date=3 August 2013 | access-date=4 August 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130821163042/http://asia.eurosport.com/wrc/finland-rally/2013/ogier-claims-first-rally-finland-win_sto3868728/story.shtml | archive-date=21 August 2013 | url-status=dead }}

File:Neste Oil Rally 2010 - Jari-Matti Latvala in shakedown.jpg during 2010 shakedown]]

Rally Finland was chosen the "Rally of the Year" for the third year in a row in 2004.{{cite web | title=Uuteen aikaan | work=Neste Oil Rally Finland | url=http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/historia/uuteenaikaan/ | access-date=15 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120115063430/http://www.nesteoilrallyfinland.fi/historia/uuteenaikaan/ | archive-date=15 January 2012 }} Despite Lahti entering the race,{{cite news | url=http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/muutlajit/uutiset.shtml/2005/08/384548/kisa-suomen-mm-rallin-isannyydesta-tiukka | date=8 August 2005 | access-date=25 December 2011 | title=Kisa Suomen MM-rallin isännyydestä tiukka | work=MTV3 | language=fi}} a unanimous decision was made to keep Jyväskylä as the rally headquarters.{{cite news | url=http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/muutlajit/uutiset.shtml/2005/08/388173/suomen-mm-ralli-jatkossakin-jyvaskylassa | date=26 August 2005 | access-date=25 December 2011 | title=Suomen MM-ralli jatkossakin Jyväskylässä | work=MTV3 | language=fi}} In 2005, Grönholm set the still-standing record for the highest average speed in a world rally; {{convert|122.86|km/h|mph}}.{{Cite web | title=Top 30 fastest rallies | url=http://www.juwra.com/stats_event_average_speeds.html | work=World Rally Archive | access-date=25 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120903092127/http://www.juwra.com/stats_event_average_speeds.html | archive-date=3 September 2012 | url-status=live }} In the 2007 Rally Finland, Grönholm equalled Mikkola's win record and became the first driver to win the same WRC event seven times.{{Cite web | title=Most wins in same rally | url=http://www.juwra.com/stats_driver_wins_same_rally.html | work=World Rally Archive | access-date=25 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111109040927/http://www.juwra.com/stats_driver_wins_same_rally.html | archive-date=9 November 2011 | url-status=live }} At the 2008 rally, Sébastien Loeb added his name to the list of non-Nordic winners. This also marked Citroën's first win since 1962.

As the World Rally Championship reintroduced round rotation in 2009, Rally Finland signed a five-year contract with WRC promoter International Sportsworld Communicators (ISC), insuring that the event stays in the calendar annually.{{Cite web | work=Crash.net | title=Finland inks long term deal with WRC | url=http://www.crash.net/world+rally/news/150534/1/finland_inks_long_term_deal_with_wrc.html | date=30 July 2009 | access-date=25 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091223090739/http://www.crash.net/world+rally/News/150534/1/finland_inks_long_term_deal_with_wrc.html | archive-date=23 December 2009 | url-status=live }} The 2010 event saw a major change; the rally was run in two days instead of three and finished on Saturday.{{cite news | first=David | last=Evans | url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/85859 | date=6 August 2010 | access-date=25 December 2011 | title=Rally Finland to stay at two days | work=Autosport | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100824062159/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/85859 | archive-date=24 August 2010 | url-status=live }} Ford's Finns Mikko Hirvonen and Jari-Matti Latvala took their debut home wins in 2009 and 2010, respectively. At the 2011 Rally Finland, Loeb made history by becoming the first non-Finn to win the event twice.{{cite news | url=http://in.reuters.com/article/idINIndia-58543220110731 | date=31 July 2011 | access-date=25 December 2011 | title=Loeb wins Rally Finland for the second time | work=Reuters | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022160037/http://in.reuters.com/article/2011/07/31/idINIndia-58543220110731 | archive-date=22 October 2012 | url-status=dead }} The event expanded to Lahti in the south and brought classic rally cars to the route, as some of the stages were also part of the Lahti Historic Rally.{{cite news | url=http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/2011/01/1251257/suomen-mm-ralli-ja-em-lahti-historic-rally-yhdistavat-voimansa | date=5 January 2011 | access-date=25 December 2011 | title=Suomen MM-ralli ja EM Lahti Historic Rally yhdistävät voimansa | work=MTV3 | language=fi}}

File:Cm2 ford.jpg in a Focus RS WRC in 2001]]

Rally Finland is known for its smooth and wide gravel roads, numerous big jumps (or yumps) and blind crests.{{Cite web | title=Countdown to Neste Oil Rally Finland | url=http://www.wrc.com/news/countdown-to-neste-oil-rally-finland/?fid=10567 | work=WRC.com | date=24 July 2009 | access-date=29 November 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523181421/http://www.wrc.com/news/countdown-to-neste-oil-rally-finland/?fid=10567 | archive-date=23 May 2012 | url-status=live }}

It is the highest-speed rally in the World Rally Championship, having averaged 125.4 km/h in 2015. Of the nine fastest-ever WRC rallies by average speed, eight are editions of the Rally Finland. As a result, it has become known as the "Grand Prix of rallying", "Finnish Grand Prix" and "Gravel Grand Prix".{{Cite web | work=Motorsport.com | title=Rally Finland: Hyundai preview | url=http://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/rally-finland-hyundai-preview | date=5 August 2003 | access-date=29 November 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909024232/http://www.motorsport.com/wrc/news/rally-finland-hyundai-preview | archive-date=9 September 2015 | url-status=live }}{{Cite web | work=Crash.net | title=Finland ups ante with over 100 entries | url=http://www.crash.net/World+Rally/news/121425/1/finland_ups_ante_with_over_100_entries.html | date=30 June 2008 | access-date=29 November 2011}}{{Cite web | work=AutoWeek | title=Weekend Racing Preview: NASCAR, F1 and WRC in action | url=http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100730/NASCAR/100739997 | date=30 July 2010 | access-date=29 November 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100804041321/http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100730/NASCAR/100739997 | archive-date=4 August 2010 | url-status=live }}

The high number of jumps led to the nickname "The Rally of the Thousand Jumps".{{cite news | newspaper=Keskisuomalainen | title='Tuhansien hyppyjen' ongelmat | page=12 | date=25 August 1978 | url=http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1978/25_8_1978_sivu12.pdf | access-date=15 December 2011 | language=fi | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130523183700/http://media.ksml.fi/escenic/ksmlRalliSivut/1978/25_8_1978_sivu12.pdf | archive-date=23 May 2013 }} Formula One world champion Kimi Räikkönen said that the event "is probably the closest to asphalt driving as you can get on gravel."{{cite news | url=http://www.mtv3.fi/urheilu/ralli/uutiset.shtml/2010/07/1160235/raikkonen-suomen-mm-rallin-sora-kuin-asvalttia | date=26 July 2010 | access-date=15 December 2011 | title=Räikkönen: Suomen MM-rallin sora kuin asvalttia | quote=Suomen ralli on ehkä lähimpänä asvaltilla ajamista, mitä soralla voi olla. | work=MTV3 | language=fi}} According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the roads are considered the best in the world championship.{{Cite web | first=Bob | last=Jennings | work=The Sydney Morning Herald | title=Seven ready to 'yump' up for title | url=http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/08/04/1059849350341.html | date=5 August 2003 | access-date=15 December 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108120012/http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/08/04/1059849350341.html | archive-date=8 January 2016 | url-status=live }} As the high-speed corners are often surrounded by trees, carefully crafted pacenotes and correct racing lines are necessary to survive the event; small errors easily lead to big crashes.

File:François Duval - 2004 Rally Finland.jpg jumps in 2004]]

Although Rally Finland has traditionally been a difficult event for non-Nordic competitors, it is popular among drivers as well as fans. The rally attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators each year,{{Cite web | title=Rally Finland stays WRC until 2014 | url=http://www.wrc.com/news/archive/rally-finland-stays-wrc-until-2014/?fid=10613 | work=WRC.com | date=30 July 2009 | access-date=15 December 2011}} and only Monte Carlo Rally and Wales Rally GB have ever attracted more starters.{{Cite web | title=Top 30 rallies with most entries | url=http://www.juwra.com/stats_event_entries.html | work=World Rally Archive | access-date=29 November 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120830221525/http://www.juwra.com/stats_event_entries.html | archive-date=30 August 2012 | url-status=live }} Along with the Wales Rally GB, it is the only event to have featured in all but one WRC season.{{Cite web | title=Hosted events | url=http://www.juwra.com/statistics_event_countries.html | work=World Rally Archive | access-date=29 November 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120906103421/http://www.juwra.com/statistics_event_countries.html | archive-date=6 September 2012 | url-status=live }} The WRC teams voted Rally Finland the "Rally of the Year" in 1998, 2002, 2003 and 2004. The official website of the World Rally Championship lists the event as one of the "undoubted highlights" of a season.

The most famous competitive section of the rally is Ouninpohja. Well known for its high-speed jumps and sweeping corners, it ranks among the most prestigious special stages in the world. At one jump located {{convert|6|km|mi}} from the start line, close to a landmark yellow house, spectators measure the length of the jumps and mark the distance by the roadside. In 2003, Markko Märtin set the record for the longest jump, travelling {{convert|57|m|ft}} in the air at a speed of {{convert|171|km/h|mph}}.{{cite web|title=The Challenge of Ouninpohja |work=Subaru World Rally Team |url=http://www.swrt.com/championship/event_overview.html?id=845 |access-date=14 August 2008 }}{{dead link|date=June 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}

The Ouninpohja stage was split into two parts for the 2005 and 2006 events, as Petter Solberg had exceeded the FIA's maximum average speed (130 km/h) in 2004.{{cite web | title=Finland organisers save Ouninpohja test | work=Crash.net | url=http://www.crash.net/world+rally/news/114156/1/finland_organisers_save_ouninpohja_test.html | date=22 April 2005 | access-date=15 December 2011}} The rule was changed for 2007 and Ouninpohja returned as a {{convert|33|km|mi|abbr=on}} version, although the organisers added three chicanes. However, the stage was left out of the route in 2008. Jarmo Mahonen, managing director of AKK Sports, stated that "the matter was discussed with the FIA already last year, and at the time we were able to keep Ouninpohja as a part of our route. This year we have to leave it out for safety reasons."{{cite web | title=Finland axes Ouninpohja stage | work=Crash.net | url=http://www.crash.net/world+rally/news/120505/1/finland_axes_ouninpohja_stage.html | date=15 January 2008 | access-date=15 December 2011}} In 2012, the Ouninpohja stage returned and also served as the power stage.{{Cite web | first=David | last=Evans | title=The Ouninpohja stage will return to Rally Finland this year | work=Autosport | url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97531 | date=15 February 2012 | access-date=4 August 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921142934/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/97531 | archive-date=21 September 2013 | url-status=live }} The stage ranges from 97 m to a maximum of 180 m in elevation.

File:2007 Rally Finland podium 11.JPG celebrate his last Rally Finland victory in 2007]]

File:Marcus Grönholm - 2004 Rally Finland 2.jpg and Peugeot Sport celebrate 2004 win]]

File:Rn1000lakes.jpg

File:Pauli Toivonen - 1962 Rally Finland.jpg, winner with his Citroën DS 19 in 1962]]

File:Osmo Kalpala - 1954 Rally Finland.jpg

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:{{note label|1995|A|A}} Due to the World Rally Championship round rotation, the 1995 rally counted only for the 2-litre World Cup.

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{{Reflist}}

• {{cite book | last=Liimatainen | first=Rauno | year=1980 | title=Jyväskylän suurajot 30 vuotta | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HK2zAAAACAAJ | language=fi}}
• {{cite book | last=Ukkonen | first=Olavi | year=1990 | title=Jyväskylän Suurajot 1951–1990: 1000 Lakes Rally | publisher=Jysuma | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=1C5fAAAACAAJ | language=fi | isbn=9789529021062}}
• Laukaa
• Hankasalmi

{{Commons category|Rally Finland}}

• {{Official website|http://www.nesterallyfinland.fi/en/}}
• [https://www.ewrc-results.com/events/14/ Rally Finland] at eWRC-results

{{Rally Finland}}

{{World rallies}}

Category:Recurring sporting events established in 1951