| * Incredibly, the WRC’s only full winter event is also one of the fastest rallies on the calendar. Special studded tyres, with 384 metal spikes inserted into each, bite into the slippery surface to provide excellent grip and allow the cars to achieve mind-boggling speeds. * Massive snowbanks line the stage, which drivers can use to their advantage, leaning their cars against them to carry more speed and stay on the road. But in milder temperatures, these snowbanks can swallow a car whole and end a driver’s rally on the spot. * The rally is based in Torsby in the Värmland region of Sweden, and much of Friday’s action takes place over the nearby border with Norway. Saturday is a feast of classic Swedish stages including Vargåsen: home to the popular Colin’s Crest, where a prize is on offer for the biggest jump. * Two-time champion Marcus Grönholm makes his comeback on his favourite event – which he won on five occasions during his career – behind the wheel of a fourth Toyota Yaris. He joins Sébastien Ogier and Sébastien Loeb to bring the total number of WRC titles on the entry list to an incredible 17. Include Petter Solberg, who’s competing in the historic section, and it’s 18! | 
