FROT – Taupo: First top 10 for Kalle Rovanperä in single-seater

The second weekend of the Formula Regional Oceania series took place this weekend of January 17th, and already there was plenty of action on Friday night into Saturday morning. Ryan Wood, winner of Race 1, triumphed on home soil at Taupo circuit in New Zealand, despite a strong start from Ugo Ugochukwu. The American driver, finishing second, confirmed his excellent form and remains the championship leader at this stage.

Behind the two leaders, Freddie Slater once again demonstrated his racing prowess. Capable of overtaking Zack Scoular and Louis Sharp, among others, the Briton finished on the podium in the first race, ahead of the two New Zealanders. Jin Nakamura, in ninth place, encountered some difficulties that persisted into race 2, while Kalle Rovanperä, in 16th, struggled at the back of the field.

Rovanperä opportunist

Indeed, the Finn was able to make amends three hours later, during the second race at Taupo. Finishing tenth, Kalle Rovanperä didn't exactly shine with his numerous overtaking maneuvers, but he managed to avoid the pitfalls ahead, given the sometimes fierce battles that led to position losses. Consistent and capable of climbing six places, the World Rally Champion has shown himself, since last week, to be able to avoid mistakes in a field prone to aggression.

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In this instance, Race 2 was won by Australian James Wharton, while Ernesto Rivera finally had a chance to fight for the win. The Mexican, who finished second, had been third in Race 3 at Hampton Downs and is aiming for a significant climb up the standings. Ugo Ugochukwu, currently third, remains firmly in the lead and is looking ahead to Races 3 and 4 to solidify his dominance.

FROT (Oceania Regional Formula) – Taupo
Race 1 ranking

Race 2 ranking