Kalle Rovanperä, the two-time World Rally Champion, has once again proven himself to be sharp not only on the track but also with his words. After his crushing victory in the 2025 WRC Canary Islands, where he dominated 15 of the 18 special stages, a competitor accused Rovanperä of using illegal technology, specifically regarding the settings of the Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 car and the use of Hankook tyres. Rovanperä did not shy away from answering the accusations, but fired back, calling the accuser a “jealous liar” in an interview with Autosport. His blunt response has sent the rally world into a frenzy, and the FIA ​​has confirmed that Rovanperä’s car complied with all regulations, quashing the allegations.

The Canary Islands Rally was a showcase for Rovanperä. He left teammate Sébastien Ogier 53.5 seconds behind and took a full 35 points, strengthening his position at the top of the World Rally Championship. Rovanperä’s performance was exceptional, as he had found a way to maximise the performance of the Hankook tyres, which had previously given him challenges. Allegations of illegal techniques, which have not been further specified, arose precisely because of this dominance. The competitor’s claims centred on the fact that Rovanperä’s car had used illegal adjustments that gave him an unfair advantage. However, Rovanperä strongly rejected the accusations: “A jealous liar can say anything, but we drive cleanly and win with skill.” He also referred to the competitor’s previous controversial actions, such as questionable route choices, which have raised questions.

The FIA ​​technical inspection confirmed that Toyota’s car was compliant with the regulations and no evidence of illegality was found. Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala backed Rovanperä, stressing that the victory was down to the driver’s skill and the car’s optimal set-up. “Kalle has worked hard to adapt to the new tyres, and in the Canaries that work paid off,” Latvala said. Rovanperä’s outspokenness is nothing new. Earlier in the season, he openly criticised the challenges of the Hankook tyres and was disappointed with a third-place finish in Rally Portugal, where he complained about the car’s lack of grip. However, the victory in the Canaries was a turning point that showed his ability to adapt.

The accusations and Rovanperä’s response have highlighted the growing competitive spirit in the World Rally Championship. The Canary Islands Rally was the first full asphalt event of the season, and Rovanperä’s experience in track racing, such as the Porsche Carrera Cup, was evident in his driving. His courage to drive the car to the limits on clean asphalt set him apart from the others, but also aroused envy. In X, fans are divided: many praise Rovanperä’s honesty and ability to respond to criticism, such as “Kalle puts the envious in their place!” Others question whether there could be any truth to the accusations, even though the FIA ​​inspection found nothing.

Rovanperä’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster. After disappointments in Monte Carlo and Sweden, the Canary Islands was his first podium and he is now second in the World Championship, 30 points behind Elfyn Evans. His versatility in motorsport – the Dubai 24 Hours, F1 testing with Red Bull and starting an enduro team – has boosted his profile. The victory in the Canary Islands showed that he has found a way to make the most of Hankook tyres, although gravel still presents challenges.

The controversy has not slowed Rovanperä down. He is now focusing on upcoming gravel rallies, such as Canada, where he hopes to improve the car’s balance. His comments in Portugal, where he complained about driving “on the edge of the cloud”, show that success on gravel still requires work. Yet Rovanperä’s confidence is unwavering, and his verbal retort shows that he is not afraid to stand up for himself. The support of the FIA ​​and the encouragement of his fans give him a leg up, but the envy of his rivals may continue as he continues his quest for the championship.

Rovanperä’s story is a testament to how talent and determination can withstand pressure. His youth – he’s still only 24 – and his ability to learn quickly make him a formidable opponent. As the season progresses, Rovanperä will have to stay focused, as his competitors will be watching his every move. The victory in the Canary Islands and his courageous response to the “jealous liar” are reminders that Rovanperä is not afraid to fight – on or off the track.