Kalle Rovanperä, the two-time world rally champion, has been in the headlines recently not only for his incredible driving achievements but also for his heartwarming family-oriented nature. Tiina Rovanperä, Kalle’s mother, has been not only his staunch supporter but also a surprising partner in motorsports. The duo recently did something unique: they competed together in the Fiorio Cup rally in Italy, where Tiina made her debut as Kalle’s co-driver. The event and their shared moments have sparked widespread interest, and fans have been given a glimpse into the close bond between mother and son. Now that Kalle has taken a break from his busy rally season, his vacation with his mother has become a topic of conversation.

Kalle, who lives in Monaco but maintains close ties to his hometown of Jyväskylä, is known not only for his skills behind the wheel but also for his love of animals and his down-to-earth nature. Tiina’s mother has told Ilta-Sanomat that their time together is often filled with ordinary everyday life, such as lounging on the sofa and exchanging news. Animals, such as horses and dogs in particular, have connected them since Kalle’s childhood. Tiina has described how Kalle grew up among horses in Puuppola, and although there have been fewer horses in recent years, the shared passion has remained. This bond was also visible in the Fiorio Cup, where mother and son shared the cockpit of a rally car in a happy and playful spirit.

The Fiorio Cup, held in honor of legendary rally boss Cesare Fiorio, was Kalle and Tiina’s first competition together. Kalle drove a Toyota Yaris Rally2, and Tiina sat in the co-driver’s seat for the first time. They won the race by 15 seconds over Italian Andrea Crugnola, and both mother and son raved about the experience on Instagram. Tiina joked that her “professional co-driver career” had started well, while Kalle praised his mother for performing brilliantly. This was not only a funny moment, but also a testament to how a passion for the sport unites generations in a rally family. Kalle has previously shared how his parents, especially his father Harri Rovanperä, have played a central role in his career, but Tiina’s participation brought a new dimension.

Kalle’s decision to only race in a partial World Championship in 2024 has allowed him to focus on his other passions, such as drifting and testing an F1 car at the Red Bull Ring. This lighter season has given him time to relax and spend time with his family. Tiina has said that although Kalle’s busy schedule limits their meetings, they try to arrange time together, especially during holidays, such as Christmas. In 2022, Tiina revealed to Ilta-Sanomat that they planned to spend Christmas “as two of them up north”, reflecting their close relationship. Kalle is also known for sending his mother greetings on television, which has warmed Tiina’s heart and delighted fans.

Tiina has followed Kalle’s career from the stands, but she doesn’t always watch the races live – especially the exciting Power Stage special stages are missed because the excitement is too much. However, she has been present at about five World Rally Championships a year, enjoying the atmosphere of the special stages on site. Kalle’s success, including becoming the youngest ever world champion in 2022, has made Tiina feel immense pride. She has praised her son’s “freezing” ability to focus and block out distractions, which has been key to his career.

Kalle and Tiina’s shared vacation time is often simple but meaningful. The moments spent in Puuppola, Jyväskylä, where Kalle returns to his roots, give him the opportunity to recharge his batteries. Tiina has said that Kalle enjoys his love of his homeland and spends time with friends and family whenever possible. Their shared experiences, whether it’s taking care of horses, rallying or quiet moments at home, show how strong a bond they have. Kalle’s return to the full World Championship series in 2025 will undoubtedly bring new challenges, but Tiina will definitely be there to support him again – perhaps even in the role of co-driver, if adventures like the Fiorio Cup continue.