The Finnish National Automobile Sport Federation AKK awarded the season’s best at its gala cruise on Saturday evening. At the end of the night, the title of car racing driver athlete of the year was given to Rovanperä and Halttunen.
This came as no surprise, as Rovanperä and his co-driver Halttunen were in a class of their own in the World Rally Championship for the second consecutive year. The duo’s championship was a highlight for Finnish car racing in the 2023 season.
Rovanperä and Halttunen did not attend the gala cruise but sent a video message to the audience.
“Jonne and I have been awarded car racing driver athlete of the year again, so a big thank you for that. It’s an amazing award, and it’s great to receive it again,” Rovanperä said, referring to the fact that the successful pair also won the same title last year.
“Unfortunately, we couldn’t be there this time, but I’m sure you’re having a great evening there, and it will continue after this. Thank you very much for the award and have a great car racing year next season,” Rovanperä concluded.
Halttunen also commented on the award happily.
“It’s really cool to receive this award. Unfortunately, Kalle and I couldn’t attend to the event this year. This year was quite different for us compared to last year, we came with a bit different tactic, but we still won the championship, and that’s the most important thing.”
Next year, Rovanperä and Halttunen are unlikely to celebrate the championship for drivers and co-drivers, as they will only participate in about half of the season’s WRC events. The Finnish stars are expected to compete full-time again from the 2025 season onwards.
