ERC
Clio ace Zielinski to show he can in ERC
Lucas Zielinski’s 2025 Clio Trophy France Asphalte success will be further recognised when he makes his FIA European Rally Championship debut in a Renault Clio Rally3.
Having demonstrated his potential aboard a Renault Clio Rally5, Zielinski is stepping up in performance on 43rd Andalusia Rally - Sierra Morena - Córdoba World Heritage Site from 17 - 19 April, the first event of the new ERC season.
Carrying the colours of Michelin, a key partner in Renault’s customer racing activities, Zielinski will compete for Olivier David's David Auto Compétition team, the winner of the Clio Trophy France Asphalte drivers’ and teams’ titles in 2025. Zielinski’s fellow Frenchman Ewen Leenhardt will co-drive.
Co-driver Leenhardt and Zielinski are heading to the ERC
© DPPI/Alpine Racing
“This is a decisive step in my career with Ewen,” Zielinski said. “Joining an official programme is an exceptional opportunity, a dream come true, which we approach with ambition, humility and huge motivation. Preparations are now coming to fruition, and everything is ready to start this new chapter in the best possible conditions.”
Joining an official programme is an exceptional opportunity, a dream come true
Twenty-nine-year-old Zielinski was the top Junior in the Clio Trophy France Asphalte last season having finished 2024 as the best rookie.
He continued: “This season will also mark a major development with our switch to a four-wheel-drive car, an important step in our racing progress. We will also venture into the European scene, a new challenge that we are eager to take on. We will enjoy every moment and look forward to sharing this adventure with those around us.
Clio Trophy France Asphalte success earned Zielinski his ERC chance
© DPPI/Alpine Racing
“We are also very proud to become Michelin ambassadors for the 2026 season, an iconic motorsport brand that we are honoured to represent. A huge thank you to Alpine Racing, our partners and David Auto Compétition for their commitment to this project.”
Rallye Le Touquet Pas-de-Calais is set to mark Zielinsk’s first competitive Clio Rally3 outing from 26 - 28 March. He will receive additional technical support from Alpine Racing and its partners, Michelin and Sabelt.
