Australians Taylor Gill and Dan Brkic are set to compete at Secto Rally Finland this weekend, continuing their quest to win the 2024 Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC).
Based on their strong performance in the previous three rounds, the former ARC regulars are currently sitting third in the JWRC with Gill only 26 points behind championship leader Romet Jürgenson.
Gill and co-driver Brkic, who currently reside in Finland, feel confident with where they currently place, but they are planning on pushing even harder to dominate in Finland.
“In previous rallies this year we’ve gone in somewhat underdone, but with what we’ve done to get ready for this event, I feel like we’re in a better position,” Gill said.
“We competed in a Finnish national round last month, have had some time in the car at tests, and have spent ample time in front of the computer watching stage vision from previous years.
“We are at a place now where we can now dial in the car at the pre-event test and shakedown, and be ready for the opening stage of the rally.”
As a FIA Rally Star driver from Australia, this JWRC season has been a very surreal experience for Gill, with the opportunity for him to advance his career in the future.
“I’m extremely excited to be on the entry list for Secto Rally Finland,” Gill explained.
“Having grown up watching the WRC, I’ve always dreamed of driving on these roads, and now, thanks to FIA Rally Star, it’s a reality.
“The fact that we’ve moved across the globe to live in Finland means it’s now somewhat of a home rally for us.”
Known for its crests, big jumps and high speed, Finland's WRC round is always a tricky round for all drivers because of its high-speed, rollercoaster stages.
“I spectated at the rally last year, but being a part of it inside the car for 2024 is somewhat daunting, however, it’s a challenge I’m eager for,” Gill said.
“Keeping a level head is vital, and both Dan and I are conscious of taking it all in, but also keeping our minds on the task at hand.”
Secto Rally Finland is the fourth round of the FIA Junior World Rally Championship, taking place on 1-4 August.