Finnish rally driver who won four World Rally Championship titles and is considered one of the greatest drivers in the history of the sport. Known for his exceptional skills and consistency behind the wheel.
Timo Mkinen, born on 18 March 1938 in Helsinki, Finland, is best remembered as one of the original Flying Finns of motor rallying, known for his impressive hat-trick of wins in the RAC Rally and the 1000 Lakes Rally.
Mkinen's start in international rallying came in the 1959 1000 Lakes Rally, now Rally Finland, in a Triumph TR3. He later drove works Austin-Healeys and Minis, showcasing his impressive skills behind the wheel.
In 1963, Mkinen finished fifth in the RAC Rally in a Healey, and in 1964, he drove Minis, coming second in the RAC Rally towards the end of that year. His breakthrough year was 1965, where he won the Monte Carlo Rally and the 1000 Lakes Rally, capturing a Coupe des Alpes at the Alpine Rally, and coming second in the RAC Rally.
In 1967, Mkinen etched his name in the annals of rallying history, driving his Mini at a high speed through the famous Ouninpohja stage of the 1000 Lakes Rally with the car's bonnet open. Despite the odds, he came third fastest on that special stage and won the rally overall, for the third year in a row.
In 1975, Mkinen made history again, winning the RAC Rally for the third time in a row, at the wheel of a Ford Escort RS1800, a feat only achieved by Erik Carlsson before him.
Throughout his career, Mkinen won the Finnish Rally Championship three times, the ice track championship six times, and the saloon car race championship three times. His impressive skills extended beyond rallying, as he won the very first Round Britain Powerboat Race in 1969.
In 1994, Mkinen made a brief return to the world of rallying, participating in an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of Mini's 1964 Monte Carlo win. Although he retired on the second stage with a fuel system problem, his presence was a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of motor sports.
Timo Mkinen passed away on 4 May 2017, leaving behind a legacy of speed, skill, and a passion for the thrill of racing. His contributions to the world of rallying will forever be remembered, inspiring generations of racers to come.
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