The Finn topped the points after winning the opening round in Portugal, but slipped two points adrift of Marius Aasen in Poland earlier this month. It is a reverse he plans to rectify on a rally won by father and 1981 world champion Ari on two occasions. “I have intensified my physical training to be in shape for Finland as well as watching last year’s onboards to remind myself of the conditions. My priority is that a Finn will win this rally so my strategy is to start flat out and increase the pace towards the end,” said 24-year-old Vatanen. While Vatanen will undoubtedly benefit from home advantage, Norwegian Aasen will not be daunted by the lightning fast gravel roads and...
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