Rovanpera does not regret his decision to quit WRC

Kalle Rovanpera admits that he has achieved everything he wanted in World Rally Championship as he is preparing himself for his next step in his racing career.

Rovanpera announced a month ago that he would retire from the World Rally Championship at the end of Rally Saudi Arabia as he wants to chase his dream in Formula1. The Finn driver has already secured a contract with Toyota for the SuperFormula in 2026 as this series is held only in Japan. Rovanpera has achieved many things in WRC including two titles, many records and 18 wins with Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT. In total, he has participated in 75 rallies at the top level from which he finished at the podium positions 30 times.

"It’s been the biggest part of my life, rallying overall, and it’s one really big chapter of life closing", Rovanpera said. 

"But yeah, I’m still really proud and grateful of everything we have achieved and done. 

"All the highs and lows are, you know, part of the journey.

"And yeah, I’m thankful for Jonne for all the good times. 

"Also good results, but I think mostly the fun times we’ve had together, all the good memories. 

"Everybody in Toyota, especially for the last years and all the teams I’ve ever been in. 

"There are so many people on a journey like this that you cannot make it alone.

"I’m really happy with everything and of course I’m also happy with my decision still even after the finish line now. 

"It feels the correct one and I regret nothing. I have achieved everything I wanted.

"It’s clear I now have new challenges which are bigger than I’ve had so far. 

"I’m sure the next steps, next few years will be the toughest of my life so far. 

"Rallying came really naturally. 

"Now I step into the unknown. I will be definitely the underdog in many ways, but that’s why I wanted to do the challenge to show that I have the balls, let’s say, to do it.

"There is quite many people in my position who would never do it because you put yourself under a big threat and I’m ready to do it and I can be proud of whatever comes out of it".

Source: DirtFish.com

Photo Credits: Toyota