Kalle Rovanpera Aims for WRC Comeback at Safari Rally Kenya

Kalle Rovanpera seeks to improve his World Rally Championship status at the Safari Rally Kenya following a challenging start to the season. He aims to adapt his driving style to the new Hankook tyres and believes he can close the gap to the championship leader. Rovanpera is supported by team principal Juha Kankkunen at the event and remains optimistic about achieving a strong result.

Kalle Rovanpera, the two-time World Champion, is determined to achieve a significant result at the Safari Rally Kenya, which he believes is crucial for his World Rally Championship title aspirations. He has acknowledged that adapting to the new Hankook control tyres for 2025 has proven to be a considerable challenge thus far. Despite being considered a top contender for a third title, Rovanpera has yet to reach the podium in the current season, finishing fourth at Monte Carlo and fifth in Sweden.

Rovanpera aims to adjust his driving style to better utilize the new tyres on the gravel surface in Kenya. Currently placed third in the championship standings, he trails his teammate Elfyn Evans by 30 points. “Now we go on gravel, a new tyre again and something new to learn,” stated Rovanpera, expressing optimism about the rally as he seeks to close the points gap.

Having achieved victory in two of the past four Safari Rallies, Rovanpera is hopeful for a strong performance. He noted that pre-event testing in southern Europe provided valuable insights into the gravel tyres. “The test last week was really important to try some different things and to find a good feeling with the car and tyres on gravel,” he remarked.

Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala expressed confidence that the gravel tyres would suit Rovanpera’s driving style more favorably, although he is unable to attend the rally due to other commitments. Four-time World Rally Champion Juha Kankkunen will assume Latvala’s responsibilities during the event. Rovanpera welcomed Kankkunen’s presence, appreciating his expertise and positive energy.

The 2025 World Rally Championship can be watched on DAZN’s dedicated Rally TV channel, available as a standalone subscription or an add-on to existing DAZN plans. DAZN broadcasts every event from both the World Rally Championship and the European Rally Championship for viewers.

Kalle Rovanpera is focused on reigniting his title challenge in the World Rally Championship with a strategic performance at the Safari Rally Kenya. Despite facing challenges with the new Hankook tyres early in the season, his previous success at this rally and recent positive test results offer promise. With expert support from Juha Kankkunen during the event, Rovanpera is poised to advance his competitive standing in the championship.

Original Source: www.dazn.com