Sébastien Ogier has further solidified his place in rallying history by claiming his 10th victory at the 93rd Rallye Monte-Carlo. Driving his Gazoo Racing Toyota Yaris, Ogier led from the opening stages on Thursday evening and maintained his dominance throughout the weekend, culminating in an emphatic win on Sunday, January 26. This marks his 62nd career victory in the World Rally Championship and his eighth since becoming a part-time competitor in 2021.
Ogier’s triumph was sealed with a win in the final Power Stage, clinched by just two-tenths of a second, adding a touch of drama to an already extraordinary performance. Overcome with emotion, Ogier dedicated the victory to his late uncle, saying, “What a weekend! This victory is for my uncle, who passed away last year. I think my lucky star followed me all the way to the end.”
The competition this year was fierce, with Ogier facing off against some of the sport’s finest drivers, including three world champions—Thierry Neuville and Ott Tänak of Hyundai, and Toyota teammate Kalle Rovanperä. The field also included Elfyn Evans, a four-time vice-world champion, and Adrien Fourmaux, an emerging talent from Hyundai who kept the pressure on until the final stages. The deciding moment came during the 18th and final stage at the iconic Col de Turini. Ogier, with an 18.2-second lead, navigated the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather with precision, holding off a strong performance by Evans to secure his win.
French drivers made a strong showing across the board. Adrien Fourmaux secured another podium finish, his sixth in the WRC, while Yohan Rossel claimed victory in the WRC2 category for the third time at Monte Carlo. Driving a Citroën C3, Rossel finished ahead of Eric Camilli (Hyundai) and his younger brother, Léo Rossel. In WRC3, Arthur Pelamourgues drove a Renault Clio to victory, and Eliott Delecour, son of 1994 Monte Carlo winner François Delecour, impressed in a two-wheel-drive Opel Corsa, outperforming more experienced competitors. Sarah Rumeau, supported by the French Motorsport Federation, delivered a commendable performance, finishing 19th overall.
This year’s rally has been hailed as one of the most competitive in decades, with a star-studded field and unpredictable conditions keeping fans on edge throughout. The event was executed smoothly, thanks to the dedication of the Automobile Club de Monaco and its volunteers, with only one stage cancelled for safety reasons. Enthusiastic crowds gathered across the four departments the rally traversed, underscoring its enduring popularity.
As the 2025 World Rally Championship season begins, Ogier’s victory sets the stage for what promises to be an electrifying year in the sport. Attention now turns to the Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique, which begins on Wednesday, January 29, and promises to continue the Principality’s rich rallying tradition.
Image courtesy of ACM M. Le Juste