Kalle Rovanpera Aims for Strong Showing at Safari Rally Kenya

Kalle Rovanpera aims for a strong performance in the Safari Rally Kenya to boost his WRC title hopes after a challenging start to the season. Adjusting to new Hankook tyres has been difficult, but he hopes the gravel conditions will suit his driving style better. Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala expresses confidence in Rovanpera’s potential improvement, while Juha Kankkunen steps in as team principal for the event. DAZN offers comprehensive coverage of the WRC.

Kalle Rovanpera, the two-time world champion, is optimistic about securing a significant result at the Safari Rally Kenya, which is crucial for igniting his World Rally Championship (WRC) title ambitions. The Toyota driver has acknowledged that his season has faced challenges, particularly in adapting to the new Hankook control tyres introduced for the 2025 season. Despite this, he enters the Safari Rally, the season’s first gravel event, determined to improve his standing after finishing fourth and fifth in earlier races this year.

Although Rovanpera has yet to achieve a podium finish this season, he remains third in the championship standings, trailing leader Elfyn Evans by 30 points. He highlights the transition to gravel tyres as a fresh opportunity to regain his competitive edge in the championship. Rovanpera stated, “Now we go on gravel, a new tyre again and something new to learn.” He expressed the intention to adapt his driving style to maximize the performance of the tyres in the challenging rally conditions.

In preparation for the Safari, Rovanpera has conducted tests on gravel tyres, which he found beneficial for finding a comfortable set-up with the car. “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. Rovanpera underscores the uniqueness of the Safari Rally, emphasizing its status as a pivotal event in the WRC calendar.

Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala expressed confidence that the gravel tyres would better suit Rovanpera’s driving style, anticipating improvement in performance. Although Latvala will not be present in Kenya due to scheduling conflicts, Juha Kankkunen, a four-time world rally champion, will take over his responsibilities. Rovanpera welcomed Kankkunen’s presence, noting, “It is really cool to have Juha at the Safari Rally… he always brings a really positive feeling.”

DAZN provides coverage of the 2025 World Rally Championship through its dedicated app channel, Rally TV. Available via subscription or as part of existing services, it broadcasts all WRC races globally, excluding select countries.

Kalle Rovanpera is gearing up for the Safari Rally Kenya, seeking to turn around his challenging WRC season by adapting to the new gravel tyres. Despite a rocky start, he remains third in the standings, keen to close the gap with his competitors. With support from the team and crucial preparation, Rovanpera aims for a strong performance at this distinctive rally, leveraging his experience and the guidance of Juha Kankkunen.

Original Source: www.dazn.com