The gravel stages of southern Spain witnessed an absolute masterclass from Finnish drivers as they stamped their authority on the final event of the calendar. Rival competitors in the service park could only watch in awe as Robert Virves and fellow contenders faced an unstoppable force out on the dusty tracks. The tension inside the paddock reached its peak when Mikko Heikkila secured a well-deserved second-place finish after eight grueling stages that tested every ounce of mechanical and mental endurance.
Action across the demanding gravel terrain turned into a private battle for the flying Finns, leaving the rest of the field trailing in their wake. A final gap of just 7.3 seconds separated the top two compatriots at the checkered flag, highlighting the relentless pace both drivers maintained from lights to flag. The leading pair traded fastest times with surgical precision, grabbing five and two stage victories respectively, although one stage had to be neutralized following an earlier off-road excursion by competitors.
Psychological warfare played a huge role early on when the eventual winner established a commanding lead of over eight seconds during Friday's opening test. That early psychological blow shattered the confidence of chasing rivals who struggled to match the high-speed rhythm on the loose surface. South African driver Max Smart pushed hard to salvage a podium spot but ultimately crossed the finish line a minute and a half adrift of the dominant Finnish duo.
Reflecting on a stellar campaign, the victorious Finn could look back with immense pride after claiming prestigious victories earlier in the year across the snow of Sweden and the rough gravel of Sardinia. Although he ultimately finished as runner-up in the grueling championship battle, his ability to deliver under pressure solidified his status among the elite. Meanwhile, Mikko Heikkila wrapped up a packed season featuring multiple championship appearances, highlighted by his sensational early-summer ERC victory in Sweden despite enduring setbacks at Rally Finland and Estonia. The top six in Granada was rounded out by Aleksander Semenov in fourth, followed by Francisco Dorado Vizcaino and Ferran Jubanya.
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