Monte-Carlo returning to Gap in 2024?

In any case, this is what Roger Didier, the mayor of the sweet capital, said in a press release. Even if the edition which recently ended with Sébastien Ogier's 9th victory was criticized for its lack of selectivity, we must remain cautious about a possible move.

Published on 26/01/2023 à 07:01

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With its very “southern” route and the absence of difficulty due to very dry weather, the progress of the 91^e edition of Monte-Carlo disappointed. Drivers, media, spectators everyone found that the proposed program did not live up to the reputation of this rally.

In response to these criticisms, will the ACM choose to once again base its event in Gap as was done between 2014 and 2021? In any case, this is what the mayor of the town located in Hautes-Alpes says in a press release: “ Roger Didier welcomes the return of the Monte-Carlo Rally in January 2024 to Gap, after two years of absence. The Automobile Club of Monaco made its decision official this Wednesday. Gap will once again be the hub of the 92^e. This is obviously a satisfaction for our city. I thank the ACM for its renewed confidence and especially Guy de Alexandris. We have built close ties with the organizers for many years and the expertise of our teams is recognized. We obviously benefit from an environment conducive to exceptional special stages, but also from a real rallying culture anchored in our territory and a very strong attachment to this event. »

From the ACM side, there have been no announcements and no comments. With the next route not being revealed until July, isn't it premature to make such claims? The Automobile Club rarely appreciates having its hand forced and could this not have reverse effects? We must not forget that when the rally was based in Monaco in 2022, some had already assured that it would only be for one year and that in 2023 Gap would see the Monte-Carlo… which was absolutely not the case. case.

It is certain that this monument must find solutions to keep the legend alive. Returning to Gap by setting up at the Espace Fontreyne would offer the possibility of returning to more special stages alpines likely to be snowy. To avoid too much disappointment, it is important not to get carried away and to let the ACM move forward at its own pace. See you in July to discover the next Monte-Carlo route.