Part-time roles have become something of a trend in the WRC’s top class in recent years. Last season, Toyota drivers Sebastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä participated in select events, giving them time for other pursuits.
This year, Rovanperä returns to a full-season schedule to fight for the world championship, while Ogier continues in a part-time capacity. On top of that, team principal Jari-Matti Latvala will also miss several WRC rounds.
Latvala will compete in the FIA European Historic Rally Championship, whose events overlap with some WRC rallies. As a result, Toyota has brought in Juha Kankkunen as an deputy team principal to step in whenever Latvala is away racing.
Having a part-time team principal is a unique arrangement in the WRC, but the two-time world champion Rovanperä is excited about Toyota’s decision to involve such a legendary figure.
“I think it’s going to be really cool,” Rovanperä enthuses.
“I would say from all the drivers I like him the most. He’s my favourite driver from all the old drivers,” the Finnish star adds.
Kankkunen is a familiar face to Toyota’s WRC drivers. The four-time world champion has been serving as the team’s ambassador and has attended several WRC events.
“He’s also a good friend of mine. He has always been supporting me also personally quite a lot,” Rovanperä says.
“I’m always enjoying my time with Juha and I cannot wait to see him in the races. I think it’s going to be really nice,” the Finnish star emphasizes.
The 2025 WRC season kicks off this week with Rally Monte Carlo. Kankkunen will be there to observe Latvala’s work as team principal.
