Rovanpera, disturbed by losing the visor from his windscreen, was 3.7s faster than the reigning champion on his way to winning stage 12 (Västilä 1, 18.94 km), which resulted in the Finn’s lead increasing to 12.0s.

Rovanpera moved into the lead on stage three and remained at the head of the field to end Friday 4.9s ahead of Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville. Interestingly Rovanpera’s speed has come despite the Finn admitting that he hasn’t been comfortable behind the wheel, and at times felt he was “all over the place.” in tricky wet conditions.

Double world champion Kalle Rovanpera made a solid start to his bid for a first home WRC win in Finland as the Toyota driver ended Friday's opening leg 4.9 seconds clear of Hyundai's Thierry Neuville.