Two-time world champion Kalle Rovanpera is poised for a critical performance at the Safari Rally Kenya, aiming to revitalize his World Rally Championship title hopes. Adapting to new Hankook tyres has presented challenges early in the season, leaving him without podiums so far. Rovanpera’s focus on adapting continues as he prepares for the gravel surface, backed by his supportive team and the experienced Juha Kankkunen during the rally.
Kalle Rovanpera, the two-time world champion, is eager to achieve a significant result at this week’s Safari Rally Kenya, which he believes is crucial for rejuvenating his World Rally Championship title aspirations. As the reigning champion, Rovanpera has encountered challenges adapting to the new Hankook control tyres, noting that the beginning of the season has not been smooth thus far.
Currently ranked third in the championship, Rovanpera trails behind teammate Elfyn Evans by 30 points. He has yet to secure a podium finish this season, having placed fourth at the Monte Carlo opener and fifth in Sweden. Rovanpera finds that his driving style has struggled with the new tyres, prompting a necessary adjustment for optimal performance.
This Safari Rally marks the first loose surface event of the year, where Rovanpera will utilize Hankook’s gravel tyres. He has expressed optimism about this change, stating it provides a new opportunity to enhance his performance. Following a productive pre-event test in southern Europe, Rovanpera noted, “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.”
Despite his struggles, Rovanpera remains focused on closing the gap in the championship standings. He has previously secured victory in two of the last four editions of the Safari Rally and remains upbeat heading into the event. Team principal Jari-Matti Latvala has expressed confidence that the new gravel tyres will better suit Rovanpera, who appreciates the experience of deputy team principal Juha Kankkunen, stepping in for Latvala during this rally.
Fans can watch the World Rally Championship through DAZN, which offers a dedicated Rally TV channel for comprehensive coverage, including all events of the season.
Kalle Rovanpera is determined to turn his season around at the Safari Rally Kenya, aware that a strong performance is vital for his title contention. Despite struggling with the new Hankook tyres, he seeks to leverage the gravel surfaces to his advantage. With a supportive team and a change in tyre type, Rovanpera looks to recapture his competitive edge in the rally. DAZN remains the exclusive broadcast partner for the WRC, offering dedicated coverage.
Original Source: www.dazn.com
