Greensmith gets an R5 for Rally GB

Gus Greensmith has confirmed he will make his WRC2 debut in a Ford Fiesta R5 on next month’s Dayinsure Wales Rally GB.

The 19-year-old will complete his Drive DMACK Fiesta Trophy commitment in Catalunya before stepping up from an R2 car on Deeside.

The Manchester-based driver tested an M-sport Fiesta R5 in Greystoke earlier this month and will get a further day of preparation ahead of his four-wheel-drive debut on his home WRC round.

“I feel ready for the step up,” former British Junior and DDFT Rookie title winner Greensmith said. “I think we’ve proved our speed in an R2 car and now’s a good time to move up.

“The R5 car was fantastic when I tested it, I couldn’t believe how deep you could go into the corner before getting on the brakes. And obviously the speed’s much higher. It’s really brilliant.

“Wales is an event I’m a bit more familiar with, this will be the third time I’ve done it, which makes it a good place to make the step to R5. Before that though, I want to have a real go in Spain. My dad’s told me I can go as fast as I want without crashing!”

Greensmith will be co-driven by Katrin Becker for the first time in Salou.