On his Rally1 debut in Finland, widely considered one of the most demanding rallies in the world, McErlean produced a mature and assured drive, not putting a wheel wrong across the high-speed gravel stages, and showing pace and composure well beyond his experience on the Finnish roads.
“It’s been a crazy rally – honestly, it’s been one of the most enjoyable so far this season and this one felt exceptional,” said McErlean.
“Coming to Finland in a Rally1 car was always going to be something special, and to experience these conditions and these stages, especially Ouninpohja today has been really nice. Finishing as the top M-Sport car and seventh overall is a great way to end the experience.”
Matching his season-best finish of seventh, first earned at Rallye Monte Carlo back in January, the Irishman showed consistent pace throughout the weekend and was regularly among the fastest M-Sport crews despite his lack of mileage on Finnish gravel. His confidence visibly grew with every stage, culminating in a composed final push through the legendary Ouninpohja to seal a hugely rewarding result.
“From the very start, I felt comfortable in the car and we just tried to build that pace with every stage,” McErlean continued. “We didn’t take any big risks, but we trusted the notes, stayed committed, and the rhythm came to us. I have to thank Eoin [Treacy, co-driver] for everything, we’re learning all the time, and this weekend showed just how far we’ve come.”
Rally Finland is a major landmark in any WRC campaign, and for McErlean, it signifies another positive step in his journey at the sport’s top level. With each event, the young Irishman continues to fine-tune his approach, adapt to the demands of Rally1 machinery, and close the gap to the series’ frontrunners.
“This whole year is about progression,” he added. “Estonia gave us momentum, and we’ve built on that again here in Finland. These stages are a real test of commitment and understanding the car at very high speeds, and to come away with another top-ten and lead the team home is a huge confidence boost.”
With two back-to-back high-speed gravel events now under his belt, McErlean’s focus turns to the next phase of the championship as he looks to maintain his upward trajectory in the WRC’s premier class.
“I’m really looking forward now to a short break before heading to South America. A big thanks to the team and the Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy for everything they do, let’s get ready for the next one.”
McErlean is backed by Woodland NI, Admore Air Conditioning, SDC Trailers, Hutchinson Engineering, McCormack Contracting Inc, Fastener Connections, Shamrock Building Systems and EC Framing Inc.
