Daniel Mercier and Ghislain Marcoux join forces for the return of GP-101
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Two motorsport enthusiasts are teaming up once again: Daniel Mercier and Ghislain Marcoux have announced the purchase of the GP-104, which will now proudly carry the legendary number GP-101—Daniel Mercier’s number since 1993.
A natural collaboration between two worlds of performance
President of Groupe ABS, Daniel Mercier is well known in the drag racing world, where he competes in the prestigious Top Fuel category(NHRA and IHRA). He recently made headlines at the 2025 NHRA New England Nationals, recording an impressive 3.738-second run at 325 mph in the first elimination round.
Long fascinated by hydroplane racing, which he considers “the most spectacular motorsport,” Daniel Mercier wanted to reconnect with this discipline alongside his friend and driver, Ghislain Marcoux.
The two had previously teamed up from 2012 to 2014 with the GP-101 Groupe ABS, capturing a final win in
Brockville and several qualification victories. Their renewed partnership will be a 50-50 co-ownership, combining their drag and hydroplane teams. “I’ll do everything I can to make us competitive,” said Daniel Mercier.
The GP-104 reborn as GP-101
The GP-104 is known for its speed and stability.Although it hasn’t raced since 2019, the boat remains in excellent condition and has a brand-new capsule.As Ghislain notes, “The great thing is that we’re putting a boat back on the water instead of taking one off, it’s one more on the circuit!”
The return of a passionate driver
For Ghislain, this comeback is both personal and symbolic. He explains that he didn’t want to return to racingwithout his partner Daniel Mercier by his side, and with his family’s full support. “It’s a decision from the heart, but also a family decision,” he says.
His background speaks for itself: 2011 champion and Driver of the Year with the El Diablo H-666 in the Hydro 350 class, later co-driver of the GP-444 with Marc Théoret (2017–2018), Ghislain Marcoux has always combined skill, discipline, and professionalism.
A team ready to energize the circuit
The Mercier–Marcoux duo aims to rebuild a strong, inspiring team ready to hit the circuit with renewed ambition.
“Our goal is to be competitive and to put on a great show for the fans.”
The Hydroplane Racing League (HRL) is proud to announce the return to competition of two passionate ambassadors of the sport, driven by the same enthusiasm and united in their commitment to the vitality of the series.
