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Juuso Taipale
Masters of the Formula and Rally Worlds Still Drive the Same Car
Published: Today at 8:47 AM
Can Kalle Rovanperä make the leap to Formula One?
While this question might seem a stretch to some, the truth is, it’s not out of the realm of possibility—but it’s far from straightforward.
Rovanperä now faces the monumental task of achieving something unprecedented in motor racing history. Yet, if anyone has the skill to pull it off, it’s him.
While both Rovanperä and Toyota have maintained a level of silence on his potential ambitions, it would send shockwaves through the motorsport community if he didn’t kick off his formula career in the Oceania Formula Regional series, as previously reported by Iltalehti.
Every mile driven in a formula car is crucial for Rovanperä as he approaches his primary goal for next season: competing in the Japanese Super Formula series. With upcoming races looming, his need for experience is urgent.
Regardless of the kind of driving program he embarks on, Rovanperä will inevitably step into his rookie year with a learning curve. Initial stumbles are part of the game, but they shouldn’t deter him. If he trusts in his abilities, results will surely follow.
Rovanperä’s foray into the Super Formula promises to be a captivating spectacle. Each performance there will keep the fire of his F1 ambitions alive.
Should Rovanperä find success in the FIA Formula 2 series down the line, nothing would stand in the way of an F1 transition. His value and stature as a favored racer for Toyota place him at the forefront when driving positions in Formula One become available.
While F1 is Rovanperä’s ultimate aspiration, it’s worth noting that it is not his sole objective. His transition from rallying to track racing is not a disappointment, even if he misses out on a top-tier F1 seat. Given his exceptional driving talent, a long and fruitful career in various racing series awaits him.
I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if we see Rovanperä participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with Toyota’s Hypercar team as early as next year—or certainly by 2026 at the latest.
While awaiting his debut at Le Mans, Rovanperä could seize the opportunity to compete in other endurance races. Earlier this year, he got a taste of what these competitions entail in Dubai. Perhaps we’ll soon see him tackle legendary events like Spa or the Nürburgring?
There’s also the tantalizing prospect of his teaming up with none other than Max Verstappen, who has expressed his desire to race in these events. Imagine Rovanperä and Verstappen sharing a team—now that’s a pairing that could capture attention and ignite excitement.
Red Bull is known for ambitious publicity stunts, and what could be more electrifying than bringing together champions from the realms of F1 and rally racing on legendary tracks like the Nordschleife? Verstappen, who recently celebrated victory at that very circuit in his first GT race, certainly proves that the brand allegiance can be navigated.
Mark my words: it won’t be long before these Red Bull stars find themselves competing together.