Bouet hopeful he can ‘surprise’ in rookie Euro RX3 campaign

On the eve of his FIA European Rallycross Championship debut at Hungary’s Nyirád Racing Center this weekend (29-30 April), Euro RX3 rookie David Bouet is optimistic of ‘springing a few surprises’ in 2023, describing the opportunity as ‘the realisation of a dream’.

Bouet returned to racing with a bang in 2021 following a three-and-a-half-year absence, speeding to the French Junior Rallycross Championship crown before stepping up to Super1600 level last season. Piloting a new-generation Renault Clio, he triumphed at Lohéac en route to third in the title standings, and is now set to embark upon his maiden campaign of international competition with a similar car.

The 29-year-old Caen native will be supported in his new venture by RX Evolution, and as he prepares to write the next chapter in his career, he is humble about the challenges that lie ahead – but quietly confident.

“We thought a lot over the off-season about the next step to take in my career, and came to the conclusion that Euro RX3 would be the best way to continue my progression in the sport,” Bouet revealed. “For me, to compete on some of the most iconic circuits in rallycross is the realisation of a dream.

“Our first season in the series will be all about settling in and gaining experience. It’s up to me to show that I am able to rapidly adapt to new situations, and we need to focus on developing the Clio as quickly as possible. We built the car I will be racing this year over the winter, but as a model, it already proved its potential in the French Championship last season.

“It’s clear that I will need to adjust to circuits that are very different to what I have been used to so far, and track evolution is also a major feature of the European Championship, which will be new for me as well.

“Not only that, but most of the other drivers are well-accustomed to racing at this level, so it’s clearly not going to be easy, but we are working hard and have left no stone unturned and I am confident we are well-placed to tackle the challenges we will face.

“Competing in an official FIA championship is a milestone in any driver’s career, and I intend to grasp this opportunity with both hands to show what both myself and RX Evolution are capable of up against the very best in Europe. There are a lot of experienced drivers and teams in the Euro RX3 field, but I am optimistic that we can spring a few surprises over the coming weeks...”