World Rallycross tuner Kalle Rovanpera has been forced to put his fledgling open-wheel racing career on hold following medical advice.
Rovanpera set a series of “youngest” records in the World Rally Championship, winning the title in 2022 and 2023, and announced his retirement in October last year to pursue a track career with the support of long-term supporter Toyota.
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Rovanpera, 25, who tested Formula 2 machinery and is committed to competing in the Japanese Super Formula category, has outlined his aim to eventually move into Formula One.
The Finn competed in the Oceania Regional Formula Championship during the winter, finishing on the podium in wet conditions but had to withdraw from Super Formula testing due to dizziness.
His condition did not improve, and Toyota decided to put his career on hold.
“He committed himself wholeheartedly to challenging himself in Formula One, driven by a strong and unwavering desire to grow,” Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda said in a statement. “Every time he got on track in private testing, his speed was evident. I watched him push harder, discover new things about himself and improve his lap times time and time again.
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“However, despite the passion and progress, his body struggled to keep up. After being medically assessed, we came to the painful conclusion that continuing to play was not the right option for him. I asked myself what the real point of letting him chase speed, and what it meant to protect the people you trust.
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“Finally, to balance these responsibilities, I have suspended his participation in this year’s Super Formula season. To everyone involved, and to all the fans who have supported him so passionately, I am truly sorry that we were unable to meet your hopes.
“But trust this: His track racing challenges are far from over. His love for cars and desire to get faster won’t go away.”
Rovanpera added, “I have been dealing with medical issues for a long time and this year it has gotten worse. My health currently does not allow me to safely continue. My priority now is to resolve this issue.
“Feedback and progress this year shows that this program has a lot of potential. My chapter in track racing is not yet complete.”
