WRC2 title challenge requires more than just speed, says Greensmith

The 26-year-old Briton finished second to Andreas Mikkelsen at last week’s EKO Acropolis Rally Greece, although a transmission fault during Sunday’s final leg prevented him from battling head-to-head with the Norwegian driver for the WRC2 victory.

Despite retiring from Secto Rally Finland, Greensmith is one of several stars still in contention to win this year’s coveted crown and made it clear to WRC.com that securing the title remains his primary aim.

That sentiment is not necessarily shared by all WRC2 drivers, however. Some, including Oliver Solberg, have previously stated their preference for showing outright speed to win individual rallies over pursuing a championship victory.

“They only say that because they’re out of [contention for] the championship,” Greensmith responded. “The difference for me is that I’ve still got a chance to win the championship. Obviously Andreas is in a stronger position after this weekend, but it’s still very much alive.

“This weekend was about driving fast, but not too fast, and keeping the car in one piece which is what we did. We just had too many technical problems this weekend but, overall, it’s a good result and another trophy.”

Greensmith, formerly a factory pilot for M-Sport Ford, is one of few current WRC2 drivers with experience of top-level Rally1 machinery. However, In terms of future plans, he expressed contentment with his current role driving a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 for Toksport.

“This year I’ve been very happy with Toksport,” he said. “They’ve always given me a very good car, as we can see from this year with two wins and one second.

“Things are going well in the championship, so I’m happy with where I am for the moment. But that doesn’t mean that’s where I’ll be next year, we’ll have to see. For now, though, I’m content.”