P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Autosport Top 50 of 2023: #4 Kalle Rovanpera
In 2023, Kalle Rovanpera became the sixth driver in World Rally Championship history to successfully defend his title. His second consecutive crown was even more impressive than his record-breaking achievement as the youngest-ever world champion the previous year. Rovanpera showed incredible consistency and clever driving, knowing the competition would be tougher with the introduction of hybrid rules. He finished no worse than fourth, with three wins and only one costly mistake that led to his only retirement of the season. Despite starting the opening four events with only one podium, he secured the championship with a round to spare, outperforming his Toyota teammate Elfyn Evans. Rovanpera’s exceptional performances in Estonia and Greece, including a dominant run of 13 consecutive stage wins, showcased his speed and maturity beyond his years. Although he scored fewer wins than in 2022, his consistency was unmatched, accumulating the most stage wins and bonus points. Joining a prestigious group of drivers who have taken back-to-back WRC titles solidifies Rovanpera’s position among the greatest in the series’ history. However, his plans for a partial season in the following year indicate that a third consecutive title is unlikely as he aims to recharge before returning to full-time competition in 2025.
