Two-time World Rally Champion Kalle Rovanperä is taking another step toward top-level circuit racing this week as he gets behind the wheel of a Super Formula car in Japan. The series is regarded as the second-fastest single-seater championship in the world, behind Formula 1.
Testing at the legendary Suzuka Circuit
The tests will take place on Wednesday and Thursday at Suzuka Circuit.
Schedule:
- Wednesday: Two two-hour test sessions
- Thursday: Same format – a morning session, lunch break, and an afternoon run
The first cars will head out on track Wednesday morning local time (during the night between Tuesday and Wednesday in Finland).
550 horsepower and Toyota power
Rovanperä will drive the 550-horsepower Dallara SF23, powered by a Toyota engine. The car is extremely fast and aerodynamically demanding, requiring a very different driving style compared to a rally car.
He represents the Hong Kong–based KCMG outfit.
Difficult start – quick recovery
Rovanperä’s first test in December at Suzuka was almost entirely cut short due to vertigo. However, he recovered quickly and competed in January in the Formula Regional Oceania Championship in New Zealand, gaining valuable circuit racing experience.
A crucial week
This week’s tests are extremely important for the Finnish star. In just two days, he must:
- Find a feel for a completely new car
- Understand Super Formula tire behavior
- Adapt to high levels of aerodynamic downforce
- Build confidence on fast circuits
Season begins in April
The Super Formula season begins in early April at Motegi. The championship features:
- 12 races
- 7 race weekends
- 24 drivers
- 16 different teams
Rovanperä’s transition from rally to circuit racing is one of the most intriguing Finnish motorsport stories in recent years.
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