The Toyota brand has provided details regarding the decision to withdraw Kalle Rovanpera from Super Formula during this season. This decision is based on ongoing health issues affecting the Finnish driver, two-time world rally champion.
Recently, it was announced that Rovanpera will not participate in the Japanese series with the KCMG team, as initially planned. This measure is part of an effort to ensure that the driver is fit to compete at the highest level in single-seaters, following a recent medical evaluation.
Health issues and preparation
Rovanpera’s preparation for Super Formula has been affected by an episode of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, which prevented him from participating in most of the pre-season tests last December. However, he was able to compete in the Formula Regional Oceania championship in January and completed the pre-season test of Super Formula at Suzuka at the end of February, despite finishing in the last positions on the table.
Masaya Kaji, global motorsport director of Toyota, commented that the decision was made not only on medical advice but also due to the impact that health issues have had on his preparation. “The decision was driven by Morizo-san [Akio Toyoda], president of Toyota, who took responsibility for this choice,” Kaji said.
Kaji emphasized the importance of allowing Rovanpera the necessary time for his recovery. “It makes no sense to participate in races without proper preparation. When Kalle is fully prepared, both physically and mentally, we will tackle the next challenge together.”
Alternatives and next steps
Rovanpera may make his return to single-seater competition, either through a second attempt in Super Formula or in another category. “There are several possibilities for the next step. We’ll see how things develop and make decisions later,” Kaji added.
Jack Doohan’s situation
Additionally, Rovanpera is not the only prominent driver missing this year’s Super Formula. Jack Doohan, former F1 driver, also withdrew from competition with Kondo Racing at the last moment. Kaji stated that his priority has always been F1, and that his options to compete in Super Formula were limited.
Following this situation, Toyota does not rule out future collaborations with Doohan, given their current relationship and the technical partnership with Haas in F1. “There is still an opportunity for them to work together in the future, and I wouldn’t say our relationship is negative,” concluded Kaji.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
