WRC 2022: Repco Rally New Zealand

The WRC 2022 continues with the Repco Rally New Zealand, situated from the Whaanga Coast stage, marking the return of the WRC's down under action after a decade. The return of Rally New Zealand could be the break Kalle Rovanpera's waiting for as this could be the moment Rovanpera becomes the champion.

The opener saw Ott Tanak edging Craig Breen and still going on strong after Breen slid off on Whaanga Coast. As Tanak reclaimed the lead from the struggling Sebastian Ogier, bad news hit hard as Tanak and Thierry Neuville were slapped with a five-second penalty. The same goes to Kalle Rovanpera. As Elfyn Evans lost his lead after the spin, followed by accidental damage that forced him out of the race, Kalle Rovanpera storms to the lead despite the penalty.

Screengrab from WRC

In the end, Kalle Rovanpera made headlines by not only winning the Rally New Zealand but becoming the youngest WRC champion at the age of 22. Sebastian Ogier finished 2nd while Ott Tanak was demoted to 3rd place following a penalty.

Rovanpera has been crowned the champion but there are two events left of the season and the next one is the RallyRACC Rally de Espana this October 20-23.