Harri Rovanpera returned in dramatic fashion earlier this year in the Rallye de France-Tour de Corse. After the split of the Panizzi brothers, and their eventual withdrawal from the Red Bull Skoda team, Rovanpera was asked to fill the missing spot. Rovanpera had not rallied since last season's Telstra Rally Australia, and his return in Corsica was a learning experience. Rovanpera finished Corsica in 12th overall, and he was optimistic about his future events in the Skoda Fabia. Rovanpera sat down to answer questions about his return, how he is adjusting to the Fabia, and what his goals are for the remainder of the season.
How does it feel to return to a professional team?
Harri Rovanpera (HR): I'm happy to come back to business after a few months break. It's a nice feeling.
What are the major differences between the Skoda Fabia and the Mitsubishi Lancer?
HR: It's too early to say anything. Normally, I don't like to compare the old partners. Every car is different. The first tarmac event, Corsica, was so quick to say anything about the performance.
How much testing have you completed with the Fabia, and how much more testing are you planning to do?
HR: This weekend - Saturday and Sunday - and Monday we will be testing in Sardinia. Two weeks ago, we completed testing in the south of France for one day. Testing is important for the set up of the car and to get some new ideas.
Can you give some details of the discussions you held with Red Bull during the 'interview' process?
HR: I met Armin Schwarz around the time of the Uddeholm Swedish Rally, and we started talking. Armin knows me well. Red Bull Skoda is a good team to be involved with since they're starting to get involved in more sports. Everything was open, and the plan was to start, maybe, in Sardinia, but all of a sudden, I had to do Corsica on short notice. Corsica was difficult without testing - I have not sat in a rally car for a while.
What are your goals for the immediate rally?
HR: It is open. When we test this weekend, we can plan what we will try to do. We want to score good points for sure, and if testing goes well, then I can possibly push.
What do you plan to accomplish during the remainder of the season; do you believe rally victories are possible?
HR: It's too soon to say. Victories are difficult with two strong teams like Kronos [Kronos Total Citroen World Rally Team] and Ford [BP-Ford World Rally Team]. Podiums can possibly be done, and we can try in Sardinia. We will have a better idea of our goals after Italy.
What do you think your biggest challenge will be this season?
HR: I think every rally is difficult and a different set of situations. Again, after Sardinia we should know better.
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