Why Greensmith was in Monaco – but not competing

The Briton, who drove for M-Sport’s top-level squad between 2019 and 2022, embarks on a new challenge this season. Starting from Guanajuato Rally México (16 – 19 March) he will complete a full programme in WRC2, driving a new Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 for Toksport.

Greensmith was present in Monaco last week, first to take part in the recce, but also to check out Toksport’s on-event facilities for the very first time. So far, the 26-year-old is impressed.

“This year will be a big change, obviously,” Greensmith told WRC.com. “The main thing will be that we have considerably less power, less aerodynamics and obviously no hybrid – so it’s going to require a different type of driving.

“That’s why I felt there was no reason to rush into Monaco,” he continued. “I haven’t driven a Rally2 car for a very long time, so I wanted to take my time to do some testing and find out exactly how I need to adjust to this car.

“From what I've seen already, even just on national rallies, the new car is looking very competitive. The main reason we wanted to deal with Škoda and Toksport was because I wanted to be in the best car possible - and so far, it certainly seems we will be.”

The season opener attracted a fierce entry comprising almost 30 WRC2 competitors. Yohan Rossel won the category aboard a Citroën C3 Rally2, but Greensmith also has his eyes on the likes of Oliver Solberg and Adrien Fourmaux – both of whom, like him, have experienced life in the sport’s top tier.

"We've already got at least three WRC drivers from last year in the category, plus a lot of up-and-coming talent. It's going to be hugely competitive and it's hard to pick anyone that you think will be fast in each rally because I'm sure there'll be quite a few surprises. Whoever wins each rally, it will be fully deserved."