A warm welcome to Rally Sweden and to Värmland!

Like many of you, I have the great joy of being a passionate motorsport fan. I also have the great honor of being the Duke of the province of Värmland.

And last but not least – I am the proud patron of Rally Sweden since 2002. I have visited most of the rallies ever since.

I have seen stars like Marcus Grönholm, Petter Solberg and Sebastian Loeb on the top of their careers. Therefore, being here, for the opening of Rally Sweden is a very special occasion for me. I look forward to seeing today's talents compete – and seeing the stars of tomorrow be born.

I am so glad that one of Sweden's biggest sports events takes place here in Värmland! For more than 50 years now, the Rally has been a winter event.

A classic Rally Sweden is characterized by frozen roads lined with snow banks: A real challenge for the drivers and their teams – who we are all looking forward to follow.

This year the Service Park has been re-located to Torsby. This will hopefully ensure, for many years to come, full winter conditions. The Rally can therefore be held in its true habitat: the beautiful white winter landscape of Värmland.

I would like to wish all the drivers good luck in the competition –may the best team and driver win!

And to all of you spectators – be safe out there and respect each other!

And now, ladies and gentlemen:

I declare Rally Sweden open.