Heikki Kovalainen, a notable figure in motorsport with a legacy spanning Formula 1 and Super GT, is facing a significant health challenge.
The Finnish driver, known for his competitive spirit and resilience, has been diagnosed with an ascending aortic aneurysm—a serious condition that impacts the arteries.
Despite leading a symptom-free life, Kovalainen has made the difficult decision to prioritize his health over his racing career, for now.
At 42 years old, Kovalainen was gearing up for a comeback in the Japanese Rally Championship for the 2024 season, reuniting with Rally Team AICELLO and co-driver Sae Kitagawa.
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Their preparations were abruptly halted just before the season’s first event, Rally Mikana, scheduled for February 16th, when it was announced that Katsuhiko Taguchi would take Kovalainen’s place.
This turn of events followed a routine medical examination that led to further investigations into Kovalainen’s heart health.
The diagnosis of an ascending aortic aneurysm—a bulge in the aorta that poses a risk of rupture due to weakened vessel walls—necessitates immediate and significant medical intervention.
In a heartfelt statement, Kovalainen shared, “I was diagnosed with ascending aortic aneurysm in a medical check-up recently and I was told not to be able to participate in rallies due to increased risk of aortic rupture.
“I have no symptoms and I’m currently feeling good, and we are now making a plan on how to solve this issue.
“An open-heart surgery is our favourable solution at the moment and we are preparing for that.
“We hope to get an operation done and start the recovery as soon as possible.
“My aim is of course to return to the Japanese Rally Championship with Rally Team AICELLO.
“I was planning to participate in the rallies until the end of January, but after careful consideration with my team of doctors I’ve decided to try and fix this issue instead.
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I”’m sorry for all our team partners and fans for this problem and many thanks for all the encouragement and support regarding this.”
Kovalainen’s career in Formula 1 is marked by notable achievements, including a victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2008 with McLaren, contributing to his overall tally of 4 podiums and 105 championship points across 111 Grand Prix starts.
As he prepares for surgery in Finland, the motorsport community stands in solidarity with Kovalainen, hopeful for his full recovery and eventual return to racing.