JUNE 16, 2026

Rovanpera cleared to resume Formula 1 pathway

Kalle Rovanpera's hopes of pursuing a future in Formula 1 have received a major boost after Toyota confirmed the two-time world rally champion has been medically cleared to resume his racing program.

The Finn shocked the motorsport world when he stepped away from rallying to begin a serious single-seater pathway, with confirmed plans to compete in Japan's Super Formula series.

However, those plans were abruptly halted after Rovanpera developed a dizziness condition that ruled him out on medical grounds following early single seater testing and racing.

Now, Toyota Gazoo Racing says the 25-year-old is ready to restart the journey, having made strong progress in his recovery over recent weeks.

"Since his planned participation in Super Formula this season was placed on pause due to medical reasons, Kalle has taken time to recover and focus on his health.

With his recovery progressing well, he has already resumed physical training and can now look forward to a phased return to driving, the statement added.

Toyota revealed that Rovanpera has been working closely with Finland's Institute of High Performance Sport, known as KIHU, during his recovery.

Best known for supporting Finland's Olympic and national team athletes, KIHU has provided scientific expertise to optimise Rovanpera's recovery and training and has now cleared him to make a return to the track.

Toyota said the objective is for Rovanpera to return to racing in 2027 and will make further announcements in due course.

(GMM)