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Kalle Rovanpera bids farewell to WRC: a rallying legend’s emotional farewell and new beginnings

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
November 30, 2025
in Motorsports, WRC
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Kalle Rovanpera bids farewell to WRC: a rallying legend’s emotional farewell and new beginnings

Kalle Rovanperä (FIN) Jonne Halttunen (FIN) Of team TOYOTA GAZOO RACING WRT are seen performing during the World Rally Championship Saudi Arabia in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 28,November. 2025 // Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202511280996 // Usage for editorial use only //

Kalle Rovanpera Bids Farewell to WRC: A Heartfelt Goodbye to a Legendary Career

In a shocking turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport community, Kalle Rovanpera has officially closed the curtain on his illustrious World Rally Championship (WRC) career, leaving fans and competitors alike in a state of disbelief. The 25-year-old Finnish driver, known for his electrifying performances and record-breaking feats, is making a daring leap into the world of single-seater racing, setting his sights on the ultimate prize: Formula 1.

Rovanpera’s final act in the WRC was far from the fairy tale ending he had envisioned. Competing at the Rally Saudi Arabia, he faced an uphill battle, plagued by multiple punctures, and ultimately finished a disappointing seventh. Entering the season finale a daunting 24 points behind the leader, Rovanpera’s aspirations for a third world title crumbled, leaving him to settle for third place in the championship. The title was clinched by none other than the legendary Sebastien Ogier, who snagged his ninth world crown, with Elfyn Evans securing the runner-up spot.

“It was not really anything decided by driving basically or not much at least,” Rovanpera lamented, reflecting on his bittersweet conclusion to what has been a transformative journey. “It was tough and not really the best feeling to conclude the career, but it is like this.”

As he embarks on this new chapter, Rovanpera’s departure from the WRC resonates deeply. He has expressed that rallying has been the “biggest part of my life so far.” The emotional farewell in Saudi Arabia was a testament to the friendships he forged and the camaraderie built throughout his career. “I’m going to miss all the people the most for sure,” he shared, particularly thanking his co-driver Jonne Halttunen for their memorable experiences together.

Rovanpera’s WRC legacy is nothing short of phenomenal. In just five and a half seasons, he shattered records, becoming the youngest podium finisher, rally winner, world champion, and double world champion. His meteoric rise began with his debut in 2017, followed by a stunning WRC2 title win in 2019, which led to his recruitment by Toyota’s factory team in 2020. With 18 wins and an impressive win rate of nearly 21%, Rovanpera stands shoulder to shoulder with legends like Hannu Mikola and Jari-Matti Latvala, boasting 30 podium finishes and an astounding 269 stage wins.

Looking back, Rovanpera identifies his 2022 title win as the pinnacle of his career. Achieving the world championship at just 22 years old, he broke Colin McRae’s long-standing record by an astonishing five years. “It was my only goal… when you do that, it is the biggest thing,” he declared proudly, reflecting on his remarkable journey.

While rallying will always hold a cherished place in his heart, Rovanpera is ready to face new challenges in the fast-paced world of single-seater racing. His first step will be in Super Formula, with the ultimate dream of reaching the heights of Formula 1. “I’m looking forward to it a lot. Obviously now we will be jumping into the deep end,” he admits, acknowledging the immense challenge that lies ahead.

“I will be the underdog every time I step into the car. Nothing has come easy in rally, but it has come more naturally. Now I have to do something that I was not made for,” he stated, emphasizing his determination to learn and grow in this new arena.

As he prepares for a rigorous testing schedule in December and the Formula Regional Oceania Trophy in New Zealand this January, Rovanpera is aware that this transition will require immense dedication. “When you do it when you are 25 years old, it is not easy, but that is what I wanted to do, to show that I’m brave enough to do the step,” he said, exuding confidence in his ability to succeed despite the challenges.

With the motorsport world watching closely, Kalle Rovanpera’s departure from the WRC marks the end of an era. As fans bid farewell to a true superstar of rallying, his journey into the unknown of single-seater racing begins—a journey that promises to be just as thrilling as the one he leaves behind. The legacy of Kalle Rovanpera will undoubtedly inspire future generations of racers, proving that sometimes, the bravest moves are the ones that lead us to uncharted territories.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2025-fia-world-rally-championship2025-formula-regional-oceania-trophy2025-toyota-usa-track-and-field-championshipsElfyn EvansKalle RovanperäSébastien Ogier
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