The 91st Monte-Carlo Rallye settles in the heart of Monaco
Hairpin curves and rocky mountain passes make for a nail-biting race for the first and oldest World Rally Championship, ending through the streets of Monte-Carlo.
One of the most legendary rallies, Monte-Carlo kickstarts the 2023 FIA World Rallye Championship (WRC). After the undeniable success of the 2022 edition, the Comité d’Organisation de l’Automobile Club de Monaco placed their bets on another year of the Rallye Monte-Carlo, through the very heart of the Principality. Geographically more compact, but still very challenging, half of this circuit has changed since the previous edition, with some novelties and difficulties throughout the Alpes-Maritimes to Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
After three days dedicated to reconnaissance, from January 16th to 18th, it’s time to train! The ‘Shakedown’ session will be on Thursday, 19 January from 9.30 am, reserved for the driver and co-pilot, which will take the road masters through the route du Col des Banquettes towards Peille, starting from Sainte-Agnès, the highest littoral village in Europe. This road should prepare the cars to start the race the same night from the Place du Casino in Monte-Carlo.
©Automobile Club Monaco
On Friday, January 20th, the drivers will head North for the second race day with 105,35 timed kilometres, three stops, a circuit to race twice a day, and a break in the middle to rest and change tires. This day will surely be challenging and full of surprises!
Finally, Sunday, January 22nd, four timed challenges will take place, without any assistance in the North-East of the Alpes-Maritimes. Another difficult racing day will take the drivers through with Lucéram, La Bollène-Vésubie, the extraordinary Col du Turini and end back in Monaco around 2.30 pm for the finish line, followed by the traditional Cérémonie de Remise des Prix, or trophy ceremony in the Casino legendary Casino Square.
Want to witness the thrill of these racers flying over the winding mountain roads? There are several spectator points along the course where you can watch the race. Visit the Automobile Club de Monaco for a detailed map. A full programme of the 2023 Monte-Carlo Rally can be found here.