The route for the 2026 Monte Carlo Rally has been unveiled. The Automobile Club de Monaco plans an edition highlighted by a possible special stage on the Principality’s city circuit. This anticipated return could mark a turning point in the recent history of the race.
The 2026 Monte Carlo Rally will take place from January 21 to 25. As every year, the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM) has made public the route of this event, which opens the World Rally Championship (WRC) season. On the program: 17 asphalt special stages spread across Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Drôme, Alpes-Maritimes, and possibly Monaco.
The start will be given on Wednesday with the traditional Shakedown session. This reconnaissance phase under real conditions precedes the official start of events scheduled for Thursday evening. Three initial special stages are on the program, two of which are at night. They will mark the opening for the crews on the mountain roads.
Friday promises to be a busy day with more than 129 timed kilometers. Saturday’s pace will be slightly less intense, with around 78 kilometers, but the tension is not expected to ease. A new special stage of 30.10 km between La Bréole and Bellaffaire is notably planned.
A possible symbolic return after 18 years
One of the highlights of this edition could be the reintegration of the Monaco city circuit. A super special is being considered for late afternoon on Saturday. The start would be at 5:45 PM for a 2.82-kilometer loop using part of the famous Formula 1 circuit. This project is still under discussion, as indicated by the ACM. An official confirmation will be required to validate this stage.
The last appearance of a special stage in Monaco dates back to 2008. At the time, drivers Chris Atkinson and François Duval recorded the same time. The day before, Chris Atkinson had narrowly beaten Marcus Grönholm by half a second. The return of this special stage would thus be a nod to that period.
The decision to bring the rally back to Monaco could also alter the logistical arrangements. If the special stage is confirmed, the transfer from Gap would be moved forward to Saturday, a day earlier than usual. This change would signify an adjustment in the very structure of the event, which has historically been based in the Hautes-Alpes prefecture.
The weekend will conclude in the Alpes-Maritimes. Two passes are planned on the special stages of Col de Braus-La Cabanette (12.48 km) and La Bollène-Vésubie-Moulinet (23.33 km). These winding roads remain a classic of the Monte Carlo Rally.
Regarding the drivers, the participation of Sébastien Ogier is yet to be confirmed. The Gapençais, who won last January, may aim for an eleventh victory in the event. He already holds the record for wins and knows the southeastern roads perfectly.
The 2026 Monte Carlo Rally thus intends to combine the legacy of the discipline with some novelties. Between the mountain routes and the possible return to Monaco, this edition could make a lasting impression without disrupting the championship’s balance.
