The 2021 event was based in Rovaniemi in Lapland and was contested over ten special stages totalling 251.08 km (156.01 mi) in competitive distance.

[10] Reigning World Champions Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia entered the round with a nine-point lead over Elfyn Evans and Scott Martin.

Yoann Bonato and Benjamin Boulloud were second, with Nicolas Ciamin and Yannick Roche in third in both standings, trailing by two points.

[13] FIA World Rallycross Championship driver Mattias Ekström will make a one-off appearance in the rally.

[14] The rally will be contested over ten special stages totalling 251.08 km (156.01 mi) in competitive distance.

The Mustalampi stage returned to the itinerary from previous runnings of the Arctic Rally, with some sections being brand-new.

Kalle Rovanperä and Jonne Halttunen finished second for Toyota and took the lead in the championship.