Kalle Rovanpera Aims for Revival in WRC at Safari Rally Kenya

Kalle Rovanpera seeks a vital result at the Safari Rally Kenya to boost his WRC title chase. Despite a challenging start to the season due to new Hankook tyres, he remains third in the standings, hoping the gravel surface will suit his driving style better. Team principal Jari-Matti Latvala expresses confidence in this transition, while Rovanpera looks forward to working with Juha Kankkunen in his absence.

Kalle Rovanpera, a two-time world champion, is optimistic about his performance at the Safari Rally Kenya, asserting that he needs a significant result to revitalize his World Rally Championship (WRC) title aspirations this season. The Toyota driver has acknowledged that adapting to the new Hankook control tyres introduced for 2025 has made his season start challenging, as evidenced by a fourth-place finish in Monte Carlo and a fifth in Sweden, where he struggled with his driving style anew.

Heading into the Safari Rally, Rovanpera remains third in the championship standings, trailing his teammate Elfyn Evans by 30 points. He emphasizes that the switch to gravel tyres presents a fresh opportunity to enhance his competitiveness. “Now we go on gravel a new tyre again and something new to learn,” Rovanpera noted, expressing his commitment to push harder in this demanding event.

Rovanpera has reported a positive experience with the gravel tyres after a pre-event test, underscoring the importance of this preparation in achieving a good feeling with the car. He cherished the Safari Rally as particularly special, stating it is hard to predict the outcomes, yet he aims for a strong performance. Toyota’s team principal Jari-Matti Latvala, despite his absence in Kenya, remains confident that the gravel tyres will suit Rovanpera better, while former world champion Juha Kankkunen steps in to fulfill team duties this event.

Rovanpera expressed enthusiasm about working with Kankkunen, praising his significant experience and positive presence. The WRC is an exciting competition, and Rovanpera looks forward to leveraging the team’s strengths to achieve a strong finish in this crucial rally.

Kalle Rovanpera is eager to secure a strong result at the Safari Rally Kenya to regain his momentum in the WRC. After facing challenges with adapting to new tyres, he is optimistic about the change to gravel and the upcoming opportunities. With insights from his team and prior testing, Rovanpera aims to maximize his performance amid fierce competition. His collaboration with Juha Kankkunen adds an extra layer of anticipation for this prestigious rally.

Original Source: www.dazn.com