Rovanperä and his co-driver Jonne Halttunen are returning as full-season competitors, aiming for their third world championship title. The campaign kicks off in two weeks with the iconic Rally Monte Carlo.
Rovanperä conducted his Monte Carlo test on French asphalt roads under wintery conditions. The session featured a mix of ice, snow, slush, and dry tarmac as he fine-tuned the setup of his Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 car.
It was evident from Rovanperä’s demeanour that he’s ready for battle after a lighter season.
“It’s cool to be back for the full season,” Rovanperä said during his test day.
Watch videos from Rovanperä’s test day below. The article continues after the videos
“Monte is always a super difficult start. This year, with new tyres for everybody, I think that’s actually going to be quite a big thing. Everybody has to learn the new tyres in all kinds of conditions, so it’s going to be interesting,” Rovanperä noted, referring to Hankook’s debut as WRC’s official tyre supplier.
Rovanperä claimed the world championship titles in 2022 and 2023. Last year, the Finnish star competed in only half of the WRC season to recharge and explore his skills in circuit racing.
Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville won his first-ever WRC title last year.
“Since last year, Thierry has been the top guy to beat. Everybody is after him now, and so are we,” Rovanperä said, throwing down the gauntlet to the Belgian champion.
“This is a different situation for us as well; we’re after him. Let’s see how it goes and who will win the fight.”
Before the rally season begins, Rovanperä will switch disciplines again, competing in a 24-hour endurance race in Dubai this weekend. The Rally Monte Carlo is scheduled for 23–26 January.
