Spotlight on the Monte-Carlo Rally!
It's a motor race eagerly awaited by rally fans, and far beyond! Firstly, because it is the inaugural round of the WRC World Rally Championship after a 2023 calendar which ended on the roads of Japan last November. But the 'Monte-Carl', its history and its myth make it a rally in a class of its own, and not just of interest to car aficionados.
You'll be able to get up close to the cars on Thursday from 4.30pm on the Place du Casino for a spectacle that's truly unique in the world, before Sébastien Ogier and co take to the mountains and legendary passes of the hinterland for an exclusively night-time first leg.
On the drivers' programme: 14 passes to be negotiated over 17 special stages spread across 5 French departments. It's a Dante-esque route that culminates in a final stage on the Col de Turini, a legendary sector of the Monte Carlo Rally and one of the most legendary in the sport.
This year, the organisers have slightly revised the route, taking it higher up the mountain to ensure even more snow than in previous editions. All the more reason to guarantee a show that's already guaranteed!
Eight-time world champion and Frenchman Sébastien Ogier is once again the favourite and will be aiming for a tenth success in the event. But Belgian Thierry Neuville, winner in 2020, will be doing his utmost to lift the trophy in front of the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
A prize-giving ceremony like no other will take place on Sunday 28 from 16:15. So, are you ready for the 92nd Monte-Carlo Rally?