WRC Superstar Kalle Rovanperä Switches to Circuit Racing: Targeting Super Formula
Rovanperä to Take on New Challenge in Single-Seater Racing
Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team (TGR-WRT) driver Kalle Rovanperä has announced his decision to leave rallying at the end of the 2025 season, embarking on a new challenge in the world of circuit racing. The two-time FIA World Rally Champion will target the highest levels of single-seater racing, joining the Japanese Super Formula Championship in 2026, with the support of TGR.
From WRC’s Youngest Champion to Super Formula’s Highest Level
Rovanperä, who secured his second WRC title this year at the age of just 24, has decided to transition to circuit racing in a move that has never been seen before in motorsport. In 2026, he will test himself behind the wheel of one of the world’s fastest single-seater racing cars, the Super Formula machine, marking a milestone in the history of motorsports.
“This decision has not been an easy one, but it feels like the right one to pursue my next dreams and challenges.”
A Look Back at Rovanperä’s Impressive WRC Career
- Rovanperä burst onto the WRC scene in 2020, becoming the youngest driver to secure a podium finish at Rally Sweden at the age of 19.
- In 2021, he became the youngest driver to win a WRC event at Rally Estonia, further establishing himself as a forces to be reckoned with.
- With the introduction of the Rally1 hybrid regulations in 2022, Rovanperä and co-driver Jonne Halttunen dominated the season, securing the driver’s championship for Rovanperä at the age of 22.
- Rovanperä successfully defended his title in 2023, showcasing remarkable consistency throughout the season. In 2024, he won four rallies, contributing to TGR-WRT’s fourth consecutive manufacturers’ championship.
- As the 2025 season draws to a close, Rovanperä remains in the hunt for his third consecutive driver’s title, with three rallies remaining.
TGR-WRT Supports Rovanperä’s Transition to Circuit Racing
TGR-WRT team principal Jari-Matti Latvala expressed his support for Rovanperä’s decision: “Given he has achieved so much and is still so young, it’s only natural that he would want to go for another challenge while he is able to do so.”
Latvala also acknowledged the uniqueness of Rovanperä’s transition: “We’ve seen racing drivers come and try rallying, but very rarely have we seen it the other way around.”
“TGR believes in helping drivers achieve their dreams and I don’t think there are many manufacturers who could give a driver that kind of opportunity, which is very exciting for both sides.”
FAQs
- Why is Kalle Rovanperä moving to circuit racing? The two-time WRC champion is seeking a new challenge and an opportunity to prove himself in a different discipline of motorsport.
- Which circuit racing series will Kalle Rovanperä join? Rovanperä will join the Japanese Super Formula Championship in 2026.
- When will Kalle Rovanperä’s move to circuit racing take effect? Rovanperä will make the switch at the end of the 2025 WRC season.
Did you know?
Kalle Rovanperä will be the first rally driver in history to make the switch to single-seater racing at such a high level.
Pro Tips
To succeed in circuit racing, Kalle will need to adapt his driving style and focus on different aspects of racing. His work with TGR and the Super Formula team will be crucial in preparing him for the unique challenges of single-seater racing.
Looking Ahead: Rovanperä’s Last Few Rallies and TGR-WRT’s Future
With three rallies remaining in the 2025 season, Rovanperä is focused on ending his rally career as World Champion. His decision to leave the WRC has brought excitement and anticipation for the future of both himself and the TGR-WRT team.
An announcement regarding the TGR-WRT driver lineup for 2026 will be made in due course, as the team looks forward to supporting Rovanperä in his new adventure while continuing to build on its rallying success.