2024 FIA World Rally Championship: Rallye Monte-Carlo

About the rally

Rallye Monte-Carlo is the WRC’s jewel in the crown and the oldest event in the calendar.

First run in 1911, it was designed to promote Monte-Carlo as a tourist destination, with competitors starting from different European cities before gathering in Monaco.

Although it is, essentially, an asphalt event, unpredictable mountain weather brings varied conditions. Competitors must expect snow, ice and dry asphalt – sometimes encountering all of these conditions within the very same stage!

Crews must balance the need for grip in winter weather with that required for dry asphalt. Shrewd tyre selection providing the best compromise for frequently changing conditions is key – and that’s where the ability to ‘read’ conditions pays dividends.

Adding to the challenge is the fact that there is no mid-leg service on any of the rally’s four days. Once the crews depart Monaco’s picturesque harbour in the morning, only they can work on their cars, using tools carried in the vehicle, until they return in the evening.

Top 3 Highlights

• Thursday evening’s start ceremony in front of Monte-Carlo’s famous casino.

• The crackling atmosphere at the top of the Turini on the opening night.

• Sunday afternoon’s finish with monarch Prince Albert due to present the prizes.

Servicepark

Is there a more picturesque backdrop to a service park than Monaco’s famous harbour? The Principality hosts the sole service park, with teams nestled around the water next to the Grand Prix circuit, surrounded by multi-million euro floating palaces behind.

Event History

• Rallye Monte-Carlo is the WRC’s jewel in the crown and the oldest in the calendar.

• First run in 1911, it was designed to promote Monte-Carlo as a tourist destination, with competitors starting from different European cities before gathering in Monaco.

• The 1966 rally became famed for its controversial outcome when giant-killing Mini Coopers claimed the top three places before being disqualified for alleged infringements of headlight regulations.

• Sébastien Ogier’s 2019 victory was the closest in the rally’s history. The Frenchman won his sixth consecutive Monte by 2.2sec after a thrilling closing stage.