World Rally Champion Kalle Rovanperä has announced his
retirement from the World Rally Championship (WRC), marking the end of a
remarkable journey in motorsport.
In a heartfelt message to fans and the rally community,
Rovanperä said the decision was not easy but felt it was the right time to
pursue other dreams in motorsports.
He expressed gratitude for what rallying had given him and
said he steps away with deep appreciation.
“I fell in love with rally as a kid and was fortunate to
grow up surrounded by legends and idols, with the chance to start driving at a
very young age,” he said.
“My dream back then was to become a WRC driver, win a rally,
and one day become a World Champion. I’m very proud to have achieved those
goals.”
The Finnish driver thanked his co-driver Jonne Halttunen,
calling him a trusted partner whose relentless work and friendship were key to
their success.
He also extended appreciation to his family, personal team,
and partners for standing by him through his career.
“Over the past decade, we have worked hard together to reach
the top; this would not have been possible without your commitment and
support,” Rovanperä stated.
He also remembered his first co-driver, Risto, whom he
hailed for teaching and trusting him when he was just a kid.
“I will always be grateful,” he added.
Rovanperä gave special recognition to TGR-WRT (Toyota Gazoo
Racing World Rally Team), thanking everyone for their hard work and belief, even
when things did not go as planned.
He praised the team for their dedication and the joy they
shared through victories and challenges alike.
“We have achieved great things together, and there is still
much to fight for in 2025,” he wrote, promising to give his all for the rest of
the season to help secure the manufacturers’ championship and to fight for the
drivers’ title.
The 25-year-old champion thanked his fans, acknowledging
their unwavering support throughout his journey.
“To you, my fans — thank you for your constant support and
huge emotions. Seeing and feeling your passion and love has been simply
unforgettable,” he said.
Rovanperä added that he hopes to see many fans at the final
rallies of the season and promised “more news soon.”
His announcement ends one of the most inspiring chapters in
rally history.
Rovanperä’s rise from a young prodigy to world champion made
him one of the sport’s most admired figures.
In a statement on his exit, Toyota Gazoo Racing said he will
be taking an ambitious new challenge, targeting the highest levels of circuit
racing.
“In 2026, he will compete in the Japanese Super Formula
Championship with the support of TGR, testing himself behind the wheel of one
of the world’s fastest single-seater racing cars in a transition the likes of
which has never been seen before in motorsport.”
