20th Monte Carlo Historique Rally - Last Lap!


Tired competitors are expected to arrive back in Monte Carlo at around 3.30 this afternoon following 24 gruelling hours in the bitterly cold and snow-covered Alps Maritimes. Crews can then enjoy 4 whole hours in and around the sunny harbourside parc ferme before 9.00 pm, when they disappear off into the night yet again for the final stages featuring two notorious tests. First the 27 km Luceram-Lantosque in the Vésubie Valley, followed by the 53 km run through La Bollene Vesubie-Moulinet-Sospel which includes the infamous Col de Turini that rises way over the snow-line to 1,604m above sea level.

Following these last timed sections, survivors will head back to Port Hercule in Monaco for the finish where they are due to arrive at 1:20am. The 20th Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique will conclude later on Wednesday, February 1, with a grand prize-giving and Gala Evening in the Monte-Carlo Sporting Club at Salle des Etoiles where chic evening gowns and back-tie suits will replace grubby racing overalls and crumpled pullovers as de rigueur for red-eyed competitors and service crews.

Out of the 330 hopeful crews that left 5 European starting points last Thursday it is expected that over 100 have now either retired or given up all hope of securing a coveted Finishers Medal. Results should be available early Wednesday morning. Good luck to the remaining competitors on their final lap of this great rally!

31st January, 2017