Young rally champion Kalle Rovanperä is set to embark on an exhilarating new chapter in his motorsport career. Just a week before his reconnaissance for the Monte Carlo Rally, the Finnish driver will make his debut in the prestigious 24-hour race at Dubai Autodrome. With impressive victories in the Porsche Carrera Cup under his belt, Rovanperä is now ready to take on the challenges of driving a GT3 car with Huber Racing. This transition marks a significant milestone in his racing journey, as he prepares to share the cockpit with experienced drivers and tackle a larger grid of competitors.

Embracing New Challenges in GT3 Racing

Rovanperä's move to GT3 racing represents a significant leap forward in his professional development. The 24-year-old will join forces with Huber Racing to pilot a Porsche 911 GT3R, a vehicle that offers enhanced performance and advanced aerodynamics. This shift from rally stages to circuit racing brings new dynamics, including sharing the car with other drivers and adapting to longer race durations. Despite these changes, Rovanperä remains confident about his ability to excel in this environment.

The upcoming 24-hour race in Dubai presents Rovanperä with ample track time to acclimate to the GT3 car. He acknowledges the learning curve associated with this transition but expresses enthusiasm for the opportunity. "I’m really excited to race for the first time with a GT3 car," Rovanperä stated. "There are new things to learn, but I’m confident we can find performance and speed during the weekend." The event also features a diverse lineup of drivers, including fellow Finns Jukka Honkavuori and Jani Käkelä, alongside Mark Wallenwein and Joel Monegro. Together, they aim to maximize their chances of success in one of the largest grids of the season.

A Step Up in Performance and Experience

The transition to GT3 racing signifies not only a change in vehicle but also a substantial upgrade in performance capabilities. Rovanperä will now have access to a more powerful engine and improved aerodynamics, providing him with an edge over previous competitions. The Porsche 911 GT3R boasts a 4.2-liter engine, delivering approximately 565 horsepower—a notable increase from his previous experiences. This added power, combined with reduced weight, promises to enhance his overall racing experience.

Christoph Huber, owner of Huber Racing, expressed excitement about welcoming Rovanperä to the team. "It’s amazing to have an exceptional driver like Kalle join us in Dubai," Huber said. "He has already demonstrated his versatility and impressive results in the Porsche Carrera Cup last season. We are eager to see how he adapts to GT3 racing and support him throughout this new phase." Rovanperä's participation in such a high-profile event underscores his growing reputation in the motorsport world. As he prepares for this challenge, all eyes will be on him to witness the next chapter in his illustrious career.