Kalle Rovanperä’s outings are confusing – the expert doubts the reason for the surprising mistakes | Sport

Kalle Rovanperä has already driven out twice in this year’s World Cup rallies. However, Urheilu’s expert Henri Haapamäki is not too worried.

Toyota’s Kalle Rovanperä went to the Portuguese World Rally as the biggest favorite to win, but was disappointed. Rovanperä drove out on Saturday morning and had to settle for five points in the super Sunday special tests.

Rovanperä was at the top of the rally before his exit. Rovanperä has already driven out twice in this year’s World Cup rallies. The previous earthquake happened in Sweden.

Sports expert Henri Haapamäki found at least one possible underlying reason for Rovanperä’s mistakes.

He points out that Rovanperä is now taking more risks because he will only drive some of this year’s World Cup rallies.

– When you run a series, then you run with your mind and rankings. But now Kalle drives only a partial number of races and wants to win rallies. When driving with high risk, there is a much greater chance of stalling or other problems, Haapamäki states.

“Work accidents and statistical losses”

Rovanperä returned to the race on Sunday, but the miserable starting position slowed things down.

– Kalle’s speed on the final day was of course influenced by his starting point. When you have to drive first, you simply cannot drive hard results in a rally like Portugal, says Haapamäki.

The third place in the Power Stage was a successful performance.

– The result of the Power Stage was even really good compared to the starting place. The difference to the top was only 2.2 seconds, when more than 11 kilometers were driven, Haapamäki estimated.

– Kalle’s speed and focus on doing things are at exactly the same level as before. Now there have been many talked about work accidents and statistical losses.

“Ogier’s work is unbelievably flawless”

Toyota’s Sebastien Ogier drove to the sixth victory of his career in Portugal. At the same time, the French star single-handedly went to the top of the all-time statistics of the Portuguese rally, passing five wins Markku Alénin.

– Absolutely masterful work. Ogier is still one of the best drivers in the series. Ogier and Rovanperä are the only ones who stand out from the group with their speed, Haapamäki notes.

Ogier is fast when needed, but also definitely a more confident driver.

– Ogier’s work is unbelievably flawless. This rally was also a victory when he kept his composure and didn’t fool around and break the car. The much-talked-about experience certainly helps, Haapamäki praises.

Neuville on the run at the top of the World Series

Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville after Portugal took a clear lead in the World Cup situation. Neuville tore up a 24-point lead over Toyota to Elfyn Evans.

– We are talking about a really significant point difference. At one point, you can even stop one rally and still stay in the top spot. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and it is much more relaxed and easier to go to competitions when you are allowed to fail even a little, Haapamäki describes.

Haapamäki reminds that Neuville has not always been at such a tough level.

– Neuville is also known for the fact that when the real places start, the outings just wanted to come. But now it has gone really well.

“Now begins Tänak’s golden season”

For Evans, the Portuguese rally was a bitter experience. Toyota’s engine failure hindered the final day, but Evans was already lost in the previous days.

– Evans’ weekend was unfortunately a minor victory. A bit half-heartedly trying to keep up with the championship fight. Neuville pulls a smile on his face and without problems, while Evans has to squeeze to the fullest, emphasizes Haapamäki.

Hyundai’s Ott Tänak is currently third in the World Cup standings. Haapamäki believes that Tänak’s rise will start now that the World Series will allow fast gravel rallies.

– The game has not been played yet. Fast gravel rallies are coming. Yes, to Tänak, they are like being called to eat. I believe that Tänak can be in a pretty much different situation after three or four rallies. Now his golden age is starting, so I think Tän will also work really hard, predicts Haapamäki.