Kalle Rovanperä takes back-to-back WRC drivers’ titles

What is it with Finns that make them so good at motorsports? PHOTO FROM TOYOTA GAZOO RACING

Toyota’s performance in the 2023 World Rally Championship has been nothing short of spectacular. Not only did the automaker clinch the manufacturers’ title with two events to go, but also one of its drivers was guaranteed to become the champion as well. And the trophy was won by Kalle Rovanperä, who likewise won the WRC title last year.

The Gazoo Racing works team has been dominant in the past few years. PHOTO FROM TOYOTA GAZOO RACING

Even though Rovanperä and navigator Jonne Halttunen finished the Central European Rally in second place, the duo had gathered enough points to assure them of the championship with one round to go. This makes the young Finn the sixth driver to win back-to-back titles in the history of the WRC, joining the ranks of compatriots Juha Kankkunen and Tommi Mäkinen.

Kalle Rovanperä joins an elite group of drivers who have successfully defended their titles. PHOTO FROM TOYOTA GAZOO RACING

This is the fifth consecutive drivers’ title and the third consecutive manufacturers’ title won by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing works team, proving that the company’s motorsports program is going in the right direction. The mood will undoubtedly be festive for the automaker and its legion of fans at the season finale in Japan.