P1racenews AI automatic summary:
"Relaxed" Rovanpera to enjoy Rally Sweden victory tilt without WRC title pressure
The reigning two-time world champion is expected to be the overwhelming favorite for victory on Sweden’s snow-covered roads. Having won a previous event in 2022, Rovanpera has the advantage of a favorable starting position after sitting out last month’s Monte Carlo season as part of his wish to contest a part-time program this year. Returning to the stages at the Arctic Lapland Rally earlier this month, a technical fault robbed him of a likely win over Toyota teammate Elfyn Evans. The 23-year-old feels more relaxed heading into his first likely WRC round this year, with the goal of pushing for wins. Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala has effectively issued Rovanpera the goal of going all out to score a win ahead of the rally, knowing road position will likely hamper Evans. Toyota has left no stone unturned in its preparations for Sweden after missing out on a podium last year on the snow. Latvala is confident that Toyota’s cars will be better equipped to handle the tricky conditions this season.
