The Finnish driver and co-driver Marko Salminen started the afternoon loop fourth overall, 33.2 seconds from the lead, before capitalizing on the chaotic conditions. Pajari is chasing a third WRC victory after wins in Estonia and Finland. zeppelin.cool
The opening day was headlined by multiple tyre failures and crashes that significantly impacted the championship leaderboard. Pajari had been delayed by a water issue but managed to move into the commanding position as rivals struggled with the challenging conditions.

