Kalle Rovanpera seeks to revitalize his WRC title bid at the Safari Rally Kenya after a challenging season start. Struggling with new Hankook control tyres, he has not yet reached the podium but remains optimistic about the upcoming gravel event. Team dynamics are favorable with Juha Kankkunen stepping in as team principal.
Kalle Rovanpera, the two-time world champion, is aiming for a strong performance at the upcoming Safari Rally Kenya to rejuvenate his World Rally Championship (WRC) title hopes. He has acknowledged facing challenges at the start of this season, primarily in adjusting to Hankook’s new control tyres introduced for 2025. Despite being considered a frontrunner for a third championship, he has yet to reach the podium, finishing fourth at Monte Carlo and fifth in Sweden.
Currently ranked third in the championship standings, Rovanpera finds himself 30 points behind teammate and leader Elfyn Evans. His focus now shifts to the gravel surface at Kenya, where he anticipates needing a breakthrough. He remarked, “Now we go on gravel a new tyre again and something new to learn,” highlighting his past successes at the Safari Rally, having won two of the last four editions.
Rovanpera expressed optimism after testing the gravel tyres in southern Europe, stating that the pre-event test was crucial for finding a good car and tyre setup. He considers the Safari Rally a unique and demanding event, emphasizing the need for a positive outcome this year. “It’s a hard rally to predict but we’ll try to push really hard and do our best,” he commented.
Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala expressed confidence that the gravel tyres will suit Rovanpera’s driving style. However, he will not be in Kenya but will instead be represented by Juha Kankkunen, the deputy team principal and four-time world champion, who Rovanpera views favorably. “It is cool to see him there and I think he always brings really positive feeling,” Rovanpera noted, indicating strong team dynamics moving forward.
Kalle Rovanpera is preparing for the Safari Rally with the hope of overcoming early-season challenges. Despite a difficult start due to new tyre adjustments, he remains a title contender. With confidence in the gravel tyres and team support, he aims for a strong performance to regain momentum in the championship race against Elfyn Evans.
Original Source: www.dazn.com
