History was made on the roads of the Principality as Oliver Solberg claimed victory at the 94th Monte Carlo Rally, becoming the youngest winner in the event’s prestigious history at just 24 years old…
The Swede delivered a composed and consistent performance to finish ahead of Britain’s Elfyn Evans and France’s Sébastien Ogier, already a nine-time winner in Monaco.
After several days of competition in highly variable conditions — from snow and ice in the mountains to dry asphalt closer to the coast — Solberg proved strongest when the stages were at their most demanding. Speaking after the finish, he credited both his team and the car for helping him extract decisive time in the trickiest sections, particularly on mixed-surface stages where tyre choice and confidence were critical.
“We found something that really worked, especially when conditions were difficult,” Solberg said. “That’s where we were able to make the difference.”
The rally also delivered a memorable result in WRC2, with French driver Léo Rossel securing victory in the category, following in the footsteps of his brother, Johann Rossel, who won WRC2 in Monaco last year. It marked Léo Rossel’s first WRC2 win at Monte Carlo and one of the biggest moments of his career.
“We were consistent all weekend and made no mistakes,” he said. “To win here, on such a demanding rally, is something very special.”
With the curtain now down on a dramatic season opener, teams and drivers will turn their attention to the next round of the championship, the Swedish Rally, scheduled from February 12 to 15, where winter conditions will once again play a decisive role.
Image: Monaco Info
