Neste Oil Rally Finland 2013: Complete Day 3 Event Info

The Finnish leg of the World Rally Championship takes place this Saturday as some of the world's best drivers get set for Round 8 of the 2013 competition.

Here's a quick look at Day 3 of the event—when the races reach their climax, the champagne sprays and the winners are crowned.

When: August, 3rd

Where: Jyvaskyla, Finland

Surface: Gravel

Most Recent Winner: Sebastien Loeb (2012)

Main Contenders

Sebastien Loeb is the title holder at this venue. But having claimed his ninth successive championship, he retired from full-time racing last year and won't be appearing this time around to defend his crown.

He's claimed two wins and a second-place finish in the three races he's attended this year, showing his undoubted class, but sadly won't be present to display his skills this weekend.

Sebastien Ogier currently leads the way in the championship with 154 points and six rounds left to race. The French driver has won four of the seven rounds so far this season and is currently clear by 64 points.

Behind Ogier in second place is Jari-Matti Latvala, who won this race in 2010. He will no doubt be hoping to capitalise on the fact that few non-Finnish riders have flourished on the tough Jyvaskyla circuit.

Only two drivers from other countries have taken the title over the past 20 years, so Latvala—who won two rounds ago in Greece—will be confident of closing the gap on his rival.

Finally, Mikko Hirvonen should not be discounted.

The Finn is currently back in fifth place in the championship, having struggled for consistency, but will hope to take advantage of his home conditions. He can also look back at his victory secured in 2009 for inspiration. 

Predictions

Despite recurring Finnish success at this venue, Sebastien Loeb's three wins over the past five seasons show that other nationalities can succeed in Finland.

Given Ogier's form this season, Loeb's fellow Frenchman has to start as favourite to extend his lead and take home the spoils.