Kalle Rovanperä became a two-time world rally champion this Sunday. The second place in the Central Europe Rally, the penultimate round of the World Rally Championship (WRC), was enough for the long-awaited and sought-after outcome – the renewal of last year’s conquest.
The Finnish Toyota driver spoke of relief after the pressure he had throughout a balanced year, admitting that it is a title he will enjoy more: ‘It’s a really good feeling right now. I’m truly relieved because it’s always a big burden on your shoulders when you have to fight for a title. I think this year was tougher and more challenging than last year. The competition was tougher, but we did a very good job. I’m really proud of the season we had, and I think I will enjoy this one more than the first title’.
With the championship standings closed, Rovanperä intends to enjoy the Rally of Japan, the final round of the year: ‘A big thank you to Jonne [Halttunen, co-driver] and the whole team, and to everyone who is supporting me. Now I will enjoy the Rally of Japan’.
