Secto Rally Finland 2025 officially got underway today in glorious summer weather in Jyväskylä. The service park at Paviljonki was open to the public free of charge, and thousands of rally fans gathered to witness the traditional ceremonial start and soak in the atmosphere of this international WRC event.
During the opening ceremony, team drivers took the stage to introduce themselves and share their thoughts and expectations ahead of the upcoming competition days. The atmosphere was warm and full of anticipation – four days of speed and excitement on the gravel roads of Central Finland lie ahead. The Paviljonki service park, with its wide range of services, restaurants, exhibitions, and activities, offered plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages.
One of the day’s most talked-about highlights was Toyota Gazoo Racing’s unveiling of a hydrogen-powered rally car. The GR Yaris Rally2 H₂ concept is Toyota’s latest innovation, demonstrating how traditional rally performance and sustainable technology can go hand in hand. Toyota’s commitment to the hydrogen economy is also visible across the event site – with a hydrogen-powered bus and even a hydrogen sauna on display at the service park throughout the weekend.
The competitive action begins tomorrow, Friday, with the Ruuhimäki shakedown stage starting at 9:00 a.m. Later in the evening, the rally’s first timed special stage will be run through the legendary Harju area right in the heart of Jyväskylä.
Thursday also marks the start of Spark the Future – a joint sustainability forum by Secto Rally Finland, WRC Promoter, and the FIA. The event brings together thought leaders from the worlds of mobility, technology, and motorsport. Among the most anticipated speakers is internationally renowned science communicator and TV personality Richard Hammond.
The rally atmosphere is officially alive and buzzing – welcome to experience world-class motorsport and the unique summer spirit of Rally Jyväskylä!
Photos: Petro Piilo / AKK
