WRC champion returns after health issues derail single-seater dream

Two-time World Rally Champion Kalle Rovanperä will return to the WRC with GAZOO Racing TOYOTA in 2027 after health problems derailed his ambition of reaching Formula 1 through single-seater racing.

The 26-year-old left rallying at the end of 2025 to pursue a career in circuit racing, with plans to contest Japan's Super Formula championship in 2026 before progressing to Formula 2 in 2027.