The rally was scheduled to be based in Sweden’s Värmland on 11 - 14 February, but a decision of the County Board of Varmland in Karlstad on Tuesday agreed there was no alternative but to cancel the event for health security reasons.

Rally CEO Glenn Olsson said increasing Coronavirus cases in Sweden had led to tighter restrictions, meaning the rally could not take place to the high safety protocols required.

“Rally Sweden organisers, the FIA and WRC Promoter fully understand that the health of the local population is of primary concern and are committed to a collective duty of care to protect both the Värmland community and the WRC family,” he said.

“During our planning, we have closely monitored what is a constantly evolving Covid-19 situation in the region. While we are naturally extremely disappointed, especially given the exciting new-look itinerary, this is a decision we support.”

Rally Sweden is the WRC’s only pure winter rally and the FIA and WRC Promoter are in negotiations with an alternative event and hope to make an announcement shortly.