Rally organizers said that the decision for the delay is to allow foreign drivers and teams better opportunities for travel after WRC Rally Finland was canceled on Monday.

"We are deeply saddened that the Finland round of World Rally Championships was canceled. It is no secret that Estonians have enjoyed crossing the sea and visiting the woods of Jyväskyla for a rally experience. It has been a pilgrimage for thousands of fans and we are sad that they will not be able to enjoy it this year," announced Janis Kaal, chairman of the board at Estonian Motorsport Association.

"When we received news that Rally Finland will be canceled, we had to decide if Rally DirtFish would be held at the previously announced dates or if we'll delay it by two weeks. Being aware of the situation regarding COVID-19, we can see that relaxations related to travel restrictions have been lifted every week," said Kaal.

"We think the delay was reasonable because it will hopefully give competitors better opportunities for travel," Kaal announced.

Reigning world champion Ott Tänak was looking forward to competing at Rally Finland. He has won the competition two years running and was hoping to finish the hat-trick this season.

"Everyone loves Finland. It is very special to me as well. There aren't too many locations where you can literally fly your car like you can in Finland. It is especially important to Estonians, as it is the only WRC round that can be considered a home round. Seeing all of the Estonian flags on the road makes me feel like I'm driving at home," Tänak said.

"It is critical to take as much time as needed to organize Rally DirtFish. I spoke to the organizers recently and they confirmed that they could potentially hold the event tomorrow, if necessary. But the more we delay it, the simpler travel will be. We'll take the time necessary and will make it a great event for everyone," Tänak concluded.

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