WRC drivers are divided on the issue of speed and safety in Rally Finland, with some calling for slower stages and others defending the current pace. The 2024 world champion, Thierry Neuville, believes the rally was 'too fast' and that the average speeds of 145-147 km/h were dangerous, citing the numerous crashes and damaged cars as evidence. He argues that the rally should be slower, emphasizing the need for safety measures like virtual chicanes. However, his rivals, such as Elfyn Evans and Adrien Fourmaux, disagree, stating that pushing the limits is part of the sport and that the cars' capabilities allow for close margins and high speeds. Jon Armstrong, from M-Sport-Ford, supports this view, suggesting that the tight competition forces drivers to take more risks, which is a natural part of rallying. Despite the differing opinions, there is a consensus that the rally's speed is a double-edged sword, offering both excitement and potential danger. The debate highlights the delicate balance between pushing the limits and ensuring the safety of the drivers and spectators, a challenge that organizers must address to maintain the sport's appeal and integrity.
