World RX – Marcus Grönholm signs his son for a full season

After having evolved within the Olsbergs MSE structure in 2016 with which he reached the semi-finals twice, Niclas Grönholm will compete in his second full season in World RX by playing within the new team created by his father Marcus, the GRX, which will be supported by the Set Promotion structure.

The son of the double champion WRC aged 20 will ride on a Ford Fiesta RX prepared by M-Sport, Malcolm Wilson's factory which competes in the WRC.

“Everything should be simpler this year, said Niclas Grönholm. I know how the tracks work, I know the circuits and that's a big advantage compared to last year. We carried out numerous tests on ice in Finland although we only did two days of testing last year on a Rallycross. I am much better prepared this year. »

“With new teams and new cars, no one really knows the hierarchy we will have, added the Finn. But I think we will have a chance of achieving good results. I will work closely with Jussi (Pinomaki, the owner of Set Promotion) again and he will again be my spotter. We will aim for the semi-finals each time, hoping to secure a place in the final. »

“We will have the car that Ken Block previously drove, said Marcus Grönholm, owner of the new GRX team. Our mechanics are working at M-Sport to prepare it and it will be ready in a few weeks so that we have time to do testing before the start of the season. »

“The last season was complicated for Niclas because we started directly at world level, underlined the Finn. It should be easier now. Added to his knowledge are the developments made on the Fiesta RX, particularly in terms of the engine. The World RX season promises to be competitive. »

Jacques-Armand Dupuis