It’s something Rovanperä, who will switch to Japan’s Super Formula series next year, has surely pondered many times himself. The Finnish rally champion has also discussed the matter with his close friend and co-driver, Jonne Halttunen.
In an interview with Rallyjournal.com, Halttunen reveals that he also offered some words of caution to Rovanperä. Japan’s Super Formula is one of the most competitive motorsport series in the world, and even a driver of extraordinary talent cannot take success there for granted.
“I’ve said this straight to Kalle as well – this is quite a drastic career choice,” Halttunen admits bluntly.
“The problem is that Kalle is a super-talented driver, but there are several others there who are also extremely talented – and they’re miles ahead of Kalle at the moment. They’ve been racing on those circuits for years and years, and they know both the cars and the tracks inside out. It’s definitely a big mountain for Kalle to climb,” Halttunen continues.
When asked about his assessment of Rovanperä’s chances of success, Halttunen remains candid.
“Honestly, I can’t say. I don’t have much experience with that discipline. And I can’t say how a super-talent like that will adapt from one category to another either. It’s really hard to tell. Especially since he’s sort of jumping straight to the top and skipping quite a few steps in between,” Halttunen reflects.
“I suspect that, at least at first, it could be quite difficult – and he might take a few heavy knocks. But hopefully he’ll learn,” Halttunen adds.
Depending on one’s point of view, the value of Rovanperä’s decision either rises or falls when considering what he’s already achieved – and how good his current situation already is.
On the one hand, Rovanperä can be praised for his courage. On the other hand, the wisdom of the decision can also be questioned. The Finn is leaving tens of millions of euros on the table and leaping into the unknown. And there are absolutely no guarantees of success.
“Kalle himself has said somewhere, ‘Is there really any sense in this?’ I’ve also wondered whether there’s any sense in it. It’s certainly a bold move – but on the other hand, he’ll surely always have the door open to return to rallying. In that sense, he’s in quite a good position,” Halttunen says.
