14 Jul 12

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Finland's president Sauli Niinisto has become a patron of the country's FIA World Rally Championship qualifier next month and is also backing the event's road safety campaign.

The FIA’s Action for Road Safety display will be at the heart of the rally’s base at the Paviljonki in Jyvaskyla from 2 August where ex-Ferrari Formula One driver Mika Salo will be on hand to discuss the importance of road safety.

As well as the vital safety message, Niinisto underlined the vital financial contribution Neste Oil Rally Finland makes to the local economies.

“The president wishes to extend his greetings to the Rally Finland organisation, who carry [out] with pride more than 60 years of tradition, and wishes to thank them for the smooth running of the event as well as the varying route, which has gained much reputation abroad,” a statement from the event organisers said. “He also wishes to stress the importance of Neste Oil Rally Finland as a promoter of local businesses and supporter of many clubs and societies. President Niinisto welcomes the road safety theme in this year’s Rally Finland.”

Neste Oil Rally Finland takes place from 2-4 August and counts as round eight of the 13-event WRC season.