Since then, Rovanperä has repeatedly explained the reasons behind his decision. This year, the two-time world champion can recharge his batteries and focus on activities other than rallying. The plan is for Rovanperä to return to full-time competition in the WRC next season.
The original plan was for Rovanperä’s so-called gap year to take place in the 2025 season, but it was moved up by a year. Now, Rovanperä’s manager Timo Jouhki has revealed in an interview with Iltalehti why the plan changed.
“There were many reasons. One big reason was Sebastien Ogier,” Jouhki told Iltalehti.
This year, Rovanperä and Ogier have shared driving duties in Toyota’s factory team with the third GR Yaris Rally1 car. For example, in this weekend’s Rally Sardinia, Ogier is behind the wheel while Rovanperä takes a break from rallying.
Jouhki speculated in the Iltalehti interview that this year’s WRC rallies might be Ogier’s last.
“This year, Toyota knew that ‘Seb’ was involved. They could count on him to cover for Kalle, “Jouhki explained.
Ogier has been in impressive form in the three WRC rounds he has competed in this year. He finished second in the season opener in Monte Carlo and took victories in Croatia and Portugal.
After his historic sixth win in the Rally de Portugal, Ogier did not directly hint at retiring.
“It looks like at the moment, every weekend brings a new nice number for me. So I have to enjoy all these moments and cherish them,” Ogier said.
“You never know when it’s going to end. But at the moment, we are still in good shape. I’m 40 years old, but it doesn’t show much yet, so we need to keep going like this.”
