Ogier hopes for changing conditions at Monte-Carlo

Your favorite special?

I have often liked Col du Perty – Col Saint Jean, and if this year we no longer run it in the usual configuration, the ES which arrives at Laborel, already run last year in heavy rain, should be another one nice special.

Your best memory ?

Difficult question, because I have several. I will still mention the first time I won it in 2009, because it was my first major international victory.

Your worst memory?

In 2012, with the S2000, we were achieving a fairly exceptional “perf” by occupying 6th place among the WRC, but it was probably a little too much, given the big crash that ended our race!

The “spectators spot” that you recommend?

In the ES of St Léger les Mélèzes, the finish is always pleasant, provided of course that you place yourself in the authorized zones and listen to the instructions of the marshals. There are some ultra-fast and spectacular passages, because we generally arrive there with snow tires, whereas there it is always rather dry.

The moment of rally What do you prefer?

When we climb onto the final podium in front of the princely palace! There is this special atmosphere in Monte-Carlo as the first rally of the championship. Then often, it's such a complicated race that the feeling of satisfaction at the finish when you manage to win is perhaps increased tenfold. But it’s still the sensations in the car that remain the coolest. Especially when you start a time trial, knowing that you have the right tires to express yourself, because this is not always the case.

Are you more into dry, wet, icy or snowy asphalt?

I like it when it's a bit mixed, with changes in grip and pace to adopt, because that's when you really manage to make a difference.

The Monte-Carlo Rally will be followed live with our live text and on Canal +. Find our Monte-Carlo Rally Guide in issue 2200 of AUTOhebdo available now in digital version on all platforms, and on newsstands this Wednesday.