The Finnish duo participated in the traditional Killarney Historic Rally in Ireland, driving a powerful Toyota Starlet. Their race started on a sour note with an electrical issue costing them about five minutes on the opening stage. However, once that was resolved, they embraced the fun of the event.
Rovanperä acknowledged the skill of the local rally drivers, who proved to be formidable competitors in challenging conditions. Despite the early setback, the Finnish rally star managed to set two fastest stage times and finished 15th in the modified car category.
“It was an amazing day. I had so much fun and I think Jonne had also,” Rovanperä grinned after crossing the finish line in Killarney town centre.
“A bit unfortunate for the small issue in the morning we couldn’t fight with guys. But the locals are also super fast, and all the cars are super cool here. So I just had so much fun,” he summarised.
Rovanperä had set a specific goal for the rally: he wanted to clock the fastest time on the iconic Moll’s Gap stage. He achieved this when the stage was run for the second time in the afternoon. Rovanperä beat the “King of Moll’s Gap,” Robert Duggan, by 1.5 seconds—a notable feat, given Duggan’s intimate knowledge of the stage.
On the Caragh Lake stage, Rovanperä found himself overtaking another competitor. A video shared by the BMV Rally Team, which fielded Rovanperä, captured the moment and showed the Finn laughing heartily after completing the overtake.
“We had some moments overtaking some car with some issues. To be honest I had no idea if we fit through on him, but luckily we did. We had a good time,” Rovanperä laughed.
Watch the video of Rovanperä’s daring overtake below.
This was Rovanperä’s first time competing in a rally in Ireland, and he noted the strong following for the sport in the country.
Ireland is vying for a return to the World Rally Championship calendar, and according to Rovanperä, the country could find its place in the series.
“At least the roads are difficult enough for the World Championship and it’s clear that the fans are actually ready for it,” Rovanperä remarked.
