Kalle Rovanpera ventures into GT3 racing
Following the surprising announcement of the 23-year-old’s decision to only participate in a partial World Rally Championship (WRC) campaign with Toyota Gazoo Racing in 2024 to recharge his energy, he expressed his desire to explore other forms of motorsport, with a GT3 car being his top choice.
“When you aim for the championship, the pressure to score points becomes overwhelming, almost overshadowing the joy of driving. The stress that eventually builds up takes away all the excitement behind the wheel,” he explained after his late-year announcement.
The current champion, along with co-driver Jonne Halttunen, will commence their WRC campaign in Rally Sweden tomorrow (Thursday).
Rovanperä has confirmed his participation in the Porsche Carrera Cup Benelux series on a limited basis. The Finnish driver will compete in a 911 GT3 Cup car in four out of the six rounds organized by Marc Goosens’ Red Ant Racing, a veteran of the 13-time Le Mans race.
“I have an incredibly thrilling rallying season ahead, and with a partial season, I have more time. It has been on my mind for a long time to try my hand at circuit racing,” Rovanperä stated.
“I’m genuinely excited to embark on this new challenge on the track. It will undoubtedly be a major test for me, but I am eagerly anticipating it. The Benelux series is also quite competitive, featuring both experienced young drivers and seasoned veterans. It will be a significant challenge for me to compete against them, but it will serve as a valuable learning experience.”
“Of course, it provides an extra boost as it represents something new. It is always more intriguing when faced with fresh challenges, and I am genuinely looking forward to experiencing it firsthand.”
“It will be a stark contrast to rallying, but I will approach it with a relaxed mindset and without placing excessive pressure on myself. I simply want to go there and assess my performance. We have a well-thought-out plan to conduct thorough testing and ensure I adapt quickly to the car. I am still a racer, and I strive to perform well.”
“I’m genuinely excited to embark on this new challenge on the track. It will undoubtedly be a major test for me, but I am eagerly anticipating it. The Benelux series is also quite competitive, featuring both experienced young drivers and seasoned veterans. It will be a significant challenge for me to compete against them, but it will serve as a valuable learning experience.”
“Of course, it provides an extra boost as it represents something new. It is always more intriguing when faced with fresh challenges, and I am genuinely looking forward to experiencing it firsthand.”
“It will be a stark contrast to rallying, but I will approach it with a relaxed mindset and without placing excessive pressure on myself. I simply want to go there and assess my performance. We have a well-thought-out plan to conduct thorough testing and ensure I adapt quickly to the car. I am still a racer, and I strive to perform well.”
According to the Source motorsportweek.com