The event in Jyväskylä saw the highest number of entries this season so far, with a total of 90 cars entering, and a 100% start rate.
Rally Finland also illustrated its tremendous credentials as it saw a massive 13 different major global car brands at the event – up from 10 in 2008.
Simon Long, ISC CEO, commented: “This level of participation demonstrates the attractive nature of the WRC to car brands. Not only have we seen a record entry level for the season – including Skoda’s first outing with a factory driver on the 2009 calendar – we also secured Ford and Citroen on multi-year agreements last week which has created a buzz in the service park and rally community.”
Fans around the world were also able to see the participation in the WRC of a true sporting icon, in former Formula One World Champion Kimi Raikkonen. Other F1 stars attending the rally in Finland were Sebastian Vettel and Heikki Kovalainen.
In addition, ISC were able to announce a new five year event agreement with Rally Finland, which will allow this tremendous event on the calendar to become even stronger and more successful.
The announcement of two prestigious SportBusiness International awards for wrc.com’s digital offering, for best community and best content, was the icing on the cake for the Championship.
Simon Long added: “As we have seen this week, the WRC offers everything a sports fan can ask for – global stars, high drama, quality programming and content distribution, plus the ability to develop and grow in an ever changing environment.
“At a time when manufacturers are leaving other sports we are in constructive discussions with several manufacturers looking to join the Championship, in addition to potential sponsors, and we’re certain that the WRC will continue to go from strength to strength as we embark on a new era for the sport.”
