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GCK unveils 'bold, daring' Renault Megane R.S RX

GC Kompetition has officially revealed the race-ready Renault Megane R.S RX ahead of its maiden FIA World Rallycross Championship presented by Monster Energy campaign in 2018.

Helmed by Monster Athlete and team principal Guerlain Chicherit, who will also race alongside team-mate Jerome Grosset-Janin, the new-for-2018 GCK team took to the iconic Automobile Club de France (ACF) on the Place de la Concorde to reveal its colours for the year.

While the location of the Megane R.S RX's unveiling is a reflection of GCK's French roots, the ambitious project nonetheless also features significant input from across the Channel courtesy of top motorsport engineering firm Prodrive, which has led construction and development of the all-new car from its base in Banbury, UK.

Though rivals were able to get a glimpse of the technically-advanced car during pre-season testing at Silverstone last month, this is the first time the Megane R.S RX has appeared in full ‘war paint', with the distinctive design and black, grey and orange hues certain to make an impression when the season kicks off with the World RX of Catalunya-Barcelona on April 14-15.

"The livery of the Megane R.S RX really reflects where we're trying to go with GCK on this project: Aggressive, daring, exposed and bold," commented Chicherit. "It will certainly stand out and for all the right reasons! I'm really excited to see where the Mégane R.S RX will come out when the lights turn green in Barcelona. Personally, I'm more confident than ever going into an event, as Team Principal and driver of GCK and whilst debuting a brand-new chassis & custom engine that has seen a lot of time and energy go into its innovative design.

"There's a lot of work still to do, really, we're still developing the Megane R.S RX but I can't help but be excited! I have an awesome team in Prodrive and GCK around me to really push me, and hopefully the car, to the limits this season!"

A two-time European Rallycross Championship runner-up, Grosset-Janin is convinced the GCK Renault Megane R.S RX will be as quick as it looks.

"We got a lot of good work done in Silverstone and I'm feeling great behind the wheel of this beast. The car is looking great and I am excited to share the finished product with the world. Barcelona is creeping up on us, and I can't wait to hit the road. I'm feeling sharp and ready for the first race."

With Prodrive having already enjoyed huge success across motorsport over the decades in rallying, touring cars and sportscars, the firm's Motorsport Managing Director John Gaw is excited to be tackling a new challenge in World RX.

"In my time at Prodrive, I have never seen so much excitement among our staff about a new car. The design team have thought about every aspect and introduced ideas never before seen in motorsport. I truly believe this is a game-changer in RX."

Zdroj: fiaworldrallycross.com