The Arctic Lapland Rally, a legendary motorsport event nestled deep within Finland’s Arctic Circle, proudly unveils its route for its 60th anniversary edition. This rally, the only one in Finland to have been held 60 times without interruption, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of rallying in its purest form. Taking place from January 30 to February 1, 2025, it will once again serve as the second round of the Finnish Rally Championship.
This year’s event promises a unique blend of tradition and innovation, with a route that draws drivers into the heart of the Arctic wilderness.
A Delicate Balance of Tradition and Innovation
To mark this landmark year, competitors will navigate a meticulously designed 215 km route across 13 special stages, each showcasing the Arctic’s untamed beauty. The 2025 itinerary is a fusion of new challenges and iconic stages, reflecting the rally’s rich history and its forward momentum.
Among the most eagerly awaited are two stages making a comeback after more than a decade. On Friday, drivers will tackle the revived Autiovaara stage (SS3), which features a dramatic crossing over the Pirttikoski dam bridge on the Kemijoki River—a symbolic blend of engineering and nature’s raw power. Following this is the return of Murtotunturi (SS4), a breathtaking 22 km stage through an ever-changing landscape, where the road mimics the undulating peaks of the Arctic fells. Once again, the rally lives up to its Finnish nickname “Tunturiralli” or “Rally of the Fells.”
“Murtotunturi has a more significant place in rallying history than many might realize. This road is extraordinary, cutting through the wilderness like a frozen rollercoaster. It’s been used for decades to test the world’s best rally cars, from the legendary Group B era to today,” explains Heikki Poranen, Chairman of the organizing committee, who has been involved in the rally for many years.
Another exciting development this year is the transformation of the Vennivaara stage. Previously used as the shakedown stage, it has been reborn as a competitive segment within the rally itself. The new Venni-Mäntyvaara stage (SS2) ends at the familiar Mäntyvaara horse racing track, drawing large crowds of spectators.
Spectacular Stages for Spectators in Rovaniemi and Kemijärvi
The Arctic Lapland Rally is a spectacle as much for its fans as it is a test for its drivers. One of the highlights is the Ounasvaara spectator stage (SS9), set against the backdrop of one of Rovaniemi’s famous ski slopes. Designed for maximum fan engagement, it offers a unique vantage point where the roar of engines echoes across the snow-covered slopes.
Another fan-favorite is the Kemijärvi spectator stage (SS12), returning after its success last year. With crowds lining the course and a bustling service area, the town’s enthusiasm was palpable, and this year promises to draw even more spectators along the shores of Lake Kemijärvi.
The Legendary Sarriojärvi: A Climax of Epic Proportions
The rally reaches its climax with the legendary Sarriojärvi stage (SS10 and SS13), a 32 km endurance test that epitomizes the Arctic Lapland Rally’s challenges. Sarriojärvi, winding through the desolate Arctic wilderness, is where champions are crowned and legends are born. The stage demands every ounce of a driver’s skill and courage. Conquering it is not just about winning the rally, but about mastering the Arctic itself.
After all the trials, the overall winner of the event will be awarded the coveted reindeer antlers—an emblem of victory in one of rallying’s most revered arenas.
“In this special anniversary edition, we’ve focused on making the rally more spectator-friendly while showcasing the stunning Arctic landscapes to the world. Many of the special stages are scheduled during the short daylight hours of the polar night, without losing the essential spirit of our rally, the night stages. We look forward to new stories being created around the campfires of rally fans, stories that will be shared for decades to come,” says Heikki Poranen.
As autumn gives way to winter in the Arctic Circle, the Lapland landscape will soon be covered in snowbanks, and the skies will light up with the northern lights. Together, these elements create the magical atmosphere of the Arctic Lapland Rally. From January 30 to February 1, 2025, spectators are invited to witness the magic of the fells and the fierce competition between the world’s best drivers, set against the unforgiving beauty of the Arctic.
60th Arctic Lapland Rally – Key Details
Friday, January 31, 2025
10:00 – Start at Lordi’s Square
10:33 – SS1: Aittajärvi 1 (22.50 km)
11:46 – SS2: Venni-Mäntyvaara (11.50 km)
Service at Mäntyvaara
14:44 – SS3: Autiovaara (11.32 km)
15:12 – SS4: Murtotunturi (22.00 km)
Remote Service at Vanttauskoski
16:55 – SS5: Kaihuavaara (19.62 km)
18:58 – SS6: Mäntyvaara (4.00 km)
Saturday, February 1, 2025
09:03 – SS7: Siikakämä (26.15 km)
10:06 – SS8: Aittajärvi 2 (22.50 km)
11:09 – SS9: Ounasvaara (1.15 km)
Service at Mäntyvaara
14:22 – SS10: Sarriojärvi 1 (32.50 km)
Remote Service at Kemijärvi
16:25 – SS11: Perävaara (7.33 km)
17:08 – SS12: Kemijärvi (2.27 km)
Remote Service at Kemijärvi
18:41 – SS13: Sarriojärvi 2 (32.50 km)
20:41 – Finish at Lordi’s Square
Total Special Stages: 215.34 km
Total Route: 859.21 km