Rallying-Ogier chasing record 10th Monte Carlo win as new season starts
Last year’s winner, Sebastien Ogier, expressed his desire to achieve a record 10th win at the Monte Carlo rally as the new season kicks off. The event is notorious for its challenging conditions, including ice and snow-covered asphalt roads. Ogier acknowledged the need to respect this rally above all others due to the unpredictable and demanding nature of the race.
With reigning champion Kalle Rovanpera opting to drive selected events this season, Welshman Elfyn Evans is expected to be Toyota’s main contender for the title. Evans, who finished as the overall runner-up in three of the past four years, has yet to secure a victory in Monte Carlo. However, he finished in second place in the 2021 edition, showcasing his potential for success.
Ott Tanak of Estonia, returning to Hyundai after a year away with M-Sport Ford, led the way in Wednesday’s shakedown, a short and dry pre-race test run. Tanak, despite having previous experience at Monte Carlo, acknowledged the rally’s immense challenge and the sense of uncertainty it brings.
This season brings a significant change to the championship’s scoring system, aimed at generating more excitement on the final day. Points will now be allotted at the end of Saturday’s action, with a scale of 18-15-13-10-8-6-4-3-2-1. As long as the crews complete the rally on Sunday, additional points will be awarded on a 7-6-5-4-3-2-1 basis for the final day, including up to five bonus points in the Power Stage.
The official Monte Carlo rally begins with two stages on Thursday evening, followed by three stages repeated twice on Friday and Saturday. The race concludes on Sunday, with the prize-giving ceremony held at Monaco’s prestigious Casino Square.
Sebastien Ogier’s pursuit of a historic 10th win in Monte Carlo captivates fans and experts alike. The challenging conditions and unpredictable nature of the rally demand utmost respect and skill from the drivers. However, Elfyn Evans, Toyota’s main title contender, aims to finally secure his first victory in Monte Carlo after finishing as the runner-up multiple times in recent years.
Returning to the Hyundai team, Ott Tanak showcased his prowess by leading the shakedown ahead of Evans and Hyundai’s Thierry Neuville. Tanak, despite his experience, admitted that the rally still remains partly unknown, adding to the excitement and anticipation.
The upcoming season introduces a new scoring system designed to enhance the competition’s thrill, particularly on the final day. The points distribution after Saturday’s action and additional points on Sunday, including bonus points in the Power Stage, will provide greater opportunities for drivers to climb up the rankings and intensify the battle for the championship.
As fans eagerly await the start of the rally, they can anticipate a captivating event that pushes drivers to their limits. The race’s challenging nature, combined with the stunning backdrop of Monaco, creates a truly mesmerizing spectacle. The Monte Carlo rally not only marks the beginning of a new season but also sets the stage for an exhilarating battle among the world’s finest rally drivers.
In conclusion, Monte Carlo’s unique and demanding conditions, coupled with the pursuit of a record 10th win by Sebastien Ogier, set the stage for an enthralling start to the rallying season. Elfyn Evans, Ott Tanak, and other top contenders will be vying for victory, as a new scoring system promises a more thrilling competition. The Monte Carlo rally symbolizes the utmost challenge in the world of rallying, providing drivers with an opportunity to showcase their skills and determination. The excitement and anticipation surrounding this event are palpable, as fans await the incredible spectacle that lies ahead.
(Reporting by Alan Baldwin in London, editing by Pritha Sarkar)
