The legendary Formula 1 route in Monaco could become part of the Rally World Championship (WRC) in the coming year. As part of the Monte-Carlo 2026 rally, a spectacular level of specialization is to be held for the first time since 2008 on parts of the famous course.
As the organizers announced on Friday, the route is currently being examined. It is planned to use the lower section of the Grand Prix course. If the project is approved, the service park will be moved from GAP to Monte Carlo a day earlier than usual. The stage in Monaco would then be the end of the Saturday program.
In the past, the course was part of the Monte-Carlo rally. In 2008, Chris Atkinson drove exactly the same best time in the Subaru and François Duval in the Ford. A year earlier, Atkinson had won the section with a lead of 0.5 seconds to Marcus Grönholm.
The 2026 season starts from January 22nd to 25th and comprises a total of 17 asphalt tests. It starts on Thursday evening with three exams, two of which should take place in the dark. Friday is the longest day of the rally with 129.38 spread kilometers. On Saturday, 78 kilometers are on the program, including a completely new section between La Breole and Bellaffaire over 30.10 kilometers.
At the end of the rally on Sunday, two rounds over the Col de Braus/La Cabanette (12.48 kilometers) and La Bollene-Vesubie/Moulinet (23.33 kilometers) are planned. This test leads over the legendary Col de Turini and is again considered a power stage.
In the coming weeks, it will be decided whether the Formula 1 route in Monaco will actually be included in the program.