Following a successful first outing in the Canary Islands, Team Renault Sport Technologies is returning to the European Rally Championship for the French leg, the Tour de Corse (17th-18th May). Occupying second and third positions in the Production Cup leader board respectively in the Canary Islands, Germain Bonnefis and Robert Consani have the opportunity to showcase all of the Mégane RS N4 qualities on the more challenging terrain in Corsica.

“I think that the Mégane can bring something to the table on this terrain”, reckons Germain Bonnefis. “The rally comprises long special stages that are very gruelling due to the number of corners. In these conditions, the hard-wearing Michelin tyres may make a difference. Furthermore, the car is easier on the brakes than heavier and more aggressive cars. This may help us over time. Besides which, the special stages are host to various types of terrain and the wide array of settings for the Mégane RS N4 will unquestionably be an asset on the road to victory in the production class.”

However, on such terrain, the teams will also be tested severely and each driver can make the difference. “The Tour de Corse is very physically demanding and I have been in training especially”, continues Germain. “With the heat and the winding, technical roads of the long special stages, it is essential to remain focused from the start to the finish line. I’d like to thank Renault Sport and their partners again, as they will be helping us in providing us with a vehicle that is best-prepared for the challenge we are facing. As for the terrain, it suits me. This is the third time that I will have taken part in the event, I’m familiar with the roads and they are fun to drive on.”

On the other hand, Robert Consani, teamed with Thibaut Gorczyca, will be contesting his first Tour de Corse. Placed third in the Production Cup in the Canary Islands, he is eager to experience first-hand the stage at which Renault has previously enjoyed success. “We will have studied the route in depth, either on video or through reconnaissance”, confides Robert. “But the fact remains that my lack of experience of the stage will be a disadvantage. The testing we carried out a few weeks ago went well and we think we can perform well on this stage.”

“The special stages are long, we will have to maintain concentration levels”, expands Robert. “The Mégane will show its hand, especially as we have a newly-developed exhaust that will free up a few horsepower. We need to be in the game quickly, without overdoing it, of course. This legendary rally is humbling and we are hoping to figure as high as possible in the Production Cup”.

Boasting eleven special stages, the Tour de Corse will start from Calvi on Friday 17th May at 07 :45, The finish will be determined at Ajaccio the following day at 20:00.