Kalle Rovanpera, the Finnish driver for Toyota and world rally champion, has decided to pause his participation in the Super Formula championship. The decision was made jointly with Toyota after a medical evaluation revealed concerns about his health.
After announcing last year his transition from the World Rally Championship to single-seater competitions, Rovanpera aimed to compete in the Japanese Super Formula with the KCMG team. However, after a pre-season test at Suzuka, it was determined that it was best to halt the program to ensure his well-being.
In a statement on his social media, Rovanpera expressed: “I have to share some difficult news. I will not be able to participate in the upcoming races of the championship. I have been dealing with medical issues for a while, and my health does not allow me to continue safely at this time.”
The driver achieved a remarkable performance in previous competitions, including the Formula Regional Oceania Trophy, where he obtained several results in the top ten, including a podium. Despite these successes, his health issues have affected his ability to race.
Toyota China reaffirmed its support for Rovanpera, highlighting its commitment to his return once he is fit. “We do not want to risk his health, so we have decided to pause his participation to ensure his well-being,” added Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota.
The driver who will take his seat during the first two races in Motegi will be Seita Nonaka, the reserve driver of KCMG. Rovanpera, for his part, is committed to working to return in shape and continue his career in circuit competitions in the future.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
