The 24-year-old driver of the Toyota Gazoo Racing team, Oliver Solberg, is on the verge of making history at the Monte-Carlo Rally. With a significant lead of 59.3 seconds, he is set to become the youngest winner of this renowned event if he maintains his advantage during the final leg on Sunday. This potential victory would surpass the previous record held by Sébastien Ogier since 2009.
Historic Monte-Carlo Rally Overview
The current leg culminated with a special stage (SS13) performed on the iconic Monaco Grand Prix circuit. This event marked the first World Rally Championship (WRC) stage held in Monaco since 2008. Spectators braved heavy rain to witness the action, gathering along the harbor as rally cars raced amidst yachts and grandstands.
Solberg’s Near Miss
Earlier in the day, Solberg faced a significant challenge during the second pass of the La Bréole/Bellaffaire stage. Changing weather conditions led to snow accumulation, and Solberg slid through a fence but managed to regain the road. Despite this scare, he still achieved the fastest time for that stage.
Expressing his thoughts after the event, Solberg remarked, “I was so careful the whole stage. I tried to follow the ruts but hit a patch of snow at the exit. I was very lucky to get out of it.” He remains optimistic for the final day, acknowledging the tricky conditions throughout the rally.
Podium Battles Heat Up
As Solberg holds the lead, the competition for the podium continues. Elfyn Evans is in second place, maintaining a 26-second advantage over ten-time Monte-Carlo champion Sébastien Ogier, who had earlier secured a stage win but opted for a conservative approach later in the day.
- Elfyn Evans: 2nd overall, +26.0 seconds behind Solberg
- Sébastien Ogier: 3rd overall
- Adrien Fourmaux: 4th overall, Hyundai’s leading runner
- Thierry Neuville: 5th overall, recovered after earlier setbacks
- Jon Armstrong: 6th overall, strong debut despite a puncture
In contrast, New Zealander Hayden Paddon struggled, sliding off the road and dropping to 13th overall. Meanwhile, Léo Rossel leads WRC2, positioned seventh overall, followed by Grégoire Munster and Takamoto Katsuta, who overcame previous mechanical issues.
Looking Ahead to the Final Day
The final day of the Monte-Carlo Rally promises further excitement, with four stages and 71.9 kilometers of racing, including two runs over the legendary Col de Turini. As competitors prepare, the tension and anticipation build for what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the rally.
