History 2000s

2003 Rally Finland (Finland)

Overview Route Results Cars Challenges

Overview

Event Name: 2003 Rally Finland (Finland)

Date: August 7–10, 2003

Start Location: Jyväskylä, Finland

Finish Location: Jyväskylä, Finland

Total Distance: ~1,300 km (estimated full route)

Competitive Stages: 382.03 km

Surface: Gravel

Often dubbed the “Gravel Grand Prix,” Rally Finland is one of the most prestigious and demanding events in the WRC calendar. In 2003, Estonian driver Markko Märtin emerged victorious, showing tremendous pace and control over the blindingly fast, jump-laden Finnish forest roads. His win marked a major milestone for both Ford and Estonia in WRC history.

Route

Ouninpohja: The rally’s crown jewel — blind crests, full-throttle jumps, and narrow tree-lined lanes.

Lankamaa: A rhythm-heavy stretch with wide sweepers — rewarded high-speed precision and bravery.

Ruuhimäki: Fast and technical, ending with the iconic final jump in front of huge crowds.

The Finnish stages are famed for their speed, jumps, and flowing crests, demanding commitment and perfect pacenote timing. Key stages included:

Conditions were dry and warm, ideal for flat-out runs and record stage speeds. Grip remained high due to well-prepared gravel roads throughout the event.

🏆 Results

Overall Winner

Markko Märtin & Michael Park · Ford Focus RS WRC

2nd Place

Marcus Grönholm & Timo Rautiainen · Peugeot 206 WRC

3rd Place

Petter Solberg & Phil Mills · Subaru Impreza WRC

Märtin delivered a nearly flawless drive from start to finish, fending off local favorite Grönholm in a thrilling duel. Solberg kept the pressure on and capitalized on late-stage drama to secure the final podium spot.

Navigation & Challenges

Jump Management: Timing landings and setting up for corners after crests was critical — even small mistakes could send cars off course.
High-Speed Focus: With average stage speeds among the highest in the sport, concentration had to be absolute at all times.
Pace Note Timing: Co-driver delivery was make-or-break — notes had to be read early and precisely for maximum commitment.

Markko Märtin’s 2003 Finland victory was a landmark result — not only his first WRC win but also a symbolic breakthrough for Estonia and a high point in Ford’s gravel campaign.

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