Renault Cup/Facom Cup! - A fratricidal competition...

The Renault Cup was created in 1982, using at the time production Renault "LeCar" models (American Renault 5s). Previously, these cars had already competed in various events, but never yet under the patronage of Renault Jeep Sport.
In the past, AMC, Renault's subsidiary in the United States, had launched a sporting initiative aimed at entering the company's cars in certain competitions, but without any real structured program.

It was the creation of Renault Racing — the Competition department of Renault USA — in 1977 (at a time when LeCar sales were booming) that saw the appearance of the first Renault models entered in typically American competitions.
The person in charge of this program, Patrick Jacquemart, worked extensively in this direction and, although he was killed during a competition, left behind a strong legacy.
Thus, LeCars distinguished themselves in IMSA events, winning significant victories in the "front-wheel-drive" category.
In 1982, Renault Racing established the Renault Cup.
Six races pitted strictly production "LeCars" against each other, but only on tracks in the eastern region of the USA.
In 1983, Renault Racing merged with AMC's competition department under the name Renault Jeep Sport (RJS). The new entity was headed by Roy C. Lunn (former head of engineering).

As the Renault Cup gained increasing success, it was decided to extend it to the entire American territory. In the West, events were held with the Alliance, and in the East, with the Encore. The LeCars disappeared from the scene.
Technical regulations were strict: the mechanical components had to remain stock, while suspensions could be stiffened by installing a kit; these Renaults were fitted with treaded Goodyear Eagle GT Racing tires.
Six events were organized for the Encore and Alliance, with the final scheduled at Watkins Glen at the end of September.
On this occasion, Alliance and Encore drivers were brought together for the only time of the season. The top three of the Renault Cup would be invited to France where they could participate in the Renault Finals.
With an Alliance or Encore retailing around $5800, an additional $1200 was required for the suspension kit and safety equipment.
The Facom Cup was the only race organized in the eastern United States, while the Alliance Cup was contested almost exclusively in California (five rounds out of six).
The winner of the Mid-Ohio event received $1700.
In total, 120 drivers took part in these two Alliance and Encore cups, making it the most attended promotional formula in the USA.
It is worth noting the strong support from Renault dealers who, in 1983, backed 56 of the 75 competitors entered in the Alliance Cup, not hesitating to prepare and/or enter two or even three cars. Thanks to this and the low cost required to prepare an Alliance for racing, the Renault US Cup found its full development.