Monte Carlo Rally: A Packed Field Prepares for Thrilling Season opener
The anticipation is building for the 2025 Monte Carlo Rally, the first event of the World Rally Championship season, as the official entry list reveals a fiercely competitive field. A total of 70 crews are set to tackle the challenging asphalt and snow-covered stages from January 23rd to 26th.The top tier Rally1 category will see a fierce battle unfold, with ten crews vying for glory. Hyundai Motorsport boasts a strong lineup featuring reigning champion Thierry Neuville, alongside Ota Tanaka and Adrien formo. Toyota gazoo Racing will field a formidable squad including Elfyn Evans, Sébastien Ogier, and Kalle Rovanperä, who will be aiming to secure crucial manufacturer points. Takamoto Katsuta and Sami Pajari round out the Toyota contingent. M-Sport Ford will be represented by gregoire Munster and Josh McErlane.
The WRC2 category promises equally intense competition, with 24 crews ready to showcase their skills. Ioan Rossel in his Citroën C3 Rally2 and Nikolaj Grjazin, returning to the Škoda Fabia RS Rally2, are among the frontrunners. The French contingent is strong,with Eric Camilli and charles Munster both piloting Hyundai i20 N Rally2 cars. Leo Rossel and Pablo sarazen will also be aiming for podium finishes in their Citroën C3 Rally2s. Adding to the excitement is 17-year-old Elliott Delecourt, son of three-time WRC stage winner François Delecourt, who will be making his mark in the Skoda Fabia Rally2 evo.
Notable names like Oliver Solberg and Gus Greensmith will also be in action, but one of the WRC2 favorites will not be competing for points in this opening round.The WRC3 category will see eight crews battling it out in Ford Fiesta Rally3 and Renault Clio Rally3 cars. Reigning champion Diego Dominguez, at just 24 years old, will be looking to defend his title and start the season strong.
Monte Carlo Mayhem: A Champion’s Perspective on the 2025 Season Opener
Welcome back, rally fans! We’re just days away from the legendary Monte Carlo rally, adn the excitement is palpable.Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with none other than Mark Higgins, three-time British Rally Champion and accomplished WRC driver, about what promises to be a thrilling season opener. Mark, thanks for joining us!
Mark Higgins: My pleasure! I can’t wait to see the cars tear thru those iconic stages. It’s always a special event to kick off the WRC season.
Let’s dive right in. The entry list is packed this year. How do you see the battle shaping up in the Rally1 category?
MH: Absolutely stacked! Hyundai, Toyota, and M-Sport all have seriously strong drivers. Thierry Neuville is the reigning champ and always a threat.but don’t count out Toyota’s trio of Evans,Ogier,and rovanperä. They have a phenomenal lineup,and any of them could be in the winning fight.
Many see Sébastien Ogier as the favourite. After his partial season last year, do you think he’s back with a vengeance?
MH: Séb is a legend for a reason.He’s incredibly consistent and knows how to get the job done. Having a full season under his belt again will definitely make him a contender.
We’re also seeing some new faces breaking through, like 17-year-old Elliott Delecourt in WRC2.
MH: It’s fantastic to see young talent like Elliott coming up through the ranks. The WRC2 category is fiercely competitive, but it’s a great proving ground.
Speaking of WRC2, Ioan Rossel seems to be a force to be reckoned with. His performance last season was impressive.
MH: Absolutely! Ioan has shown amazing speed and consistency. His Citroën C3 Rally2 is a solid machine, and he’ll be pushing for the top spot.
Moving to WRC3, we have the young champion Diego Dominguez defending his title. What are your thoughts on his chances?
MH: Diego is remarkable, and he’s only getting better. He’s got the pace and the dedication to secure back-to-back titles.
Mark,any predictions for the Monte Carlo Rally itself? who do you think will reign supreme on those treacherous mountain roads?
MH: It’s anyone’s game! I wouldn’t be surprised to see a close fight right down to the wire.The weather conditions can play a huge role, so adaptability will be key.
We appreciate your insights, Mark! It’s clear the Monte Carlo Rally is setting the stage for an incredible WRC season.
What do you think about Mark’s predictions? Who’s your pick for the Monte Carlo Rally winner and the 2025 WRC champion? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below!
