Watch WRC Rally Estonia — Day 1 Free.

What's at Stake

As the World Rally Championship returns to the high-speed gravel of Estonia, the championship battle enters a critical phase where every point counts toward the drivers' and manufacturers' titles. Success on these ultra-fast stages requires immense bravery and precision, as a single mistake at high velocity can end a title charge instantly. This event serves as a definitive test of aero-package efficiency and high-speed stability for the Rally1 hybrids.

Form Guide

Heading into the 2026 season's mid-point, the momentum is split between the specialists who excel on loose surfaces and the consistent point-scorers who have dominated the tarmac rounds. Recent events have shown that the gap between the top three manufacturers has narrowed, making road order on Day 1 a decisive factor in who can build an early lead. The local favorites and Scandinavian drivers typically hold an edge here due to their familiarity with high-speed crests and soft gravel transitions.

Key Players to Watch

• Ott Tänak — The home hero remains the benchmark for speed on these specific roads and will be under immense pressure to deliver a win for the Estonian fans.
• Kalle Rovanperä — Known for his mastery of high-speed geometry and car control, he is often the man to beat when the average speeds exceed 120kph.
• Elfyn Evans — A consistent threat on fast gravel, his smooth driving style and technical feedback make him a primary contender for the podium.

Prediction

The battle for the lead will likely come down to a duel between Tänak and Rovanperä, with the local knowledge of the Estonian stages providing a slight edge. Expect the lead to swap multiple times throughout Day 1 as drivers grapple with sweeping the loose surface for following cars. Ultimately, Tänak is predicted to hold a narrow lead heading into the overnight service due to his aggressive approach to the jumps and high-speed corners.