Overview
- The 94th Rallye Monte‑Carlo opened between Monaco and the French Alps with freezing rain and fresh snow complicating tyre calls and stage access.
- Police curtailed entry to the Col du Fanget sector after vehicles struggled on slippery roads, forcing earlier‑than‑planned restrictions.
- Toyota set the early pace in shakedown with Takamoto Katsuta fastest ahead of Sébastien Ogier, while Hyundai drivers hit trouble on the test.
- Ogier confirmed a 10‑round program for 2026 and tempered expectations of a tenth title despite entering as favorite for another Monte‑Carlo victory.
- Only 11 Rally1 cars are entered — five Toyota, three Hyundai, three M‑Sport Ford — with M‑Sport receiving technical support from a major American partner.