Sébastien Ogier sets the tone before Monte-Carlo

The 2023 season of WRC opens this weekend in the principality, from January 19 to 22. The 91st edition of Rally Monte-Carlo will be done without the 2021 winner Sébastien Loeb, probably without snow given the temperatures... but with another Frenchman, Sébastien Ogier, more determined than ever to win the Monaco event: “ I can't wait to start the season, even if I'm no longer participating full time, declares the 39-year-old Gapençais. It's always a pleasure to be behind the wheel of a competitive WRC car. » A Yaris with which the eight-time world champion hopes to become the only record holder of the event with a 9th victory, a year after losing it at the wire. 

After a checkered 2022 campaign, Sébastien Ogier is determined to attack again while displaying the same level of competitiveness. “ Last year I really enjoyed taking part in these few rallies. It was nice to see that I was still competitive, and the goal is to try to stay at that level this year and fight for some wins. » A desire shared with Toyota. " The team is never on break: even though the last few seasons have been very successful, they continue to work hard. » And for good reason: since 2019, the Drivers' titles have been monopolized by Toyota. On the Builders side, the firm is also enjoying success with three crowns (2018, 2021 and 2022).

Ogier: “The Monte-Carlo rally is the one I most want to win”

Last year at Monte-Carlo, one Sébastien chased another for victory. Loeb ended up winning thanks to Ogier's puncture on the last day. So for this 91st edition, the second most successful driver in the history of the WRC will only aim for the first step of the podium: “ The Monte-Carlo rally is certainly the one I want to win the most, I will give my best once again. The preparation phase was tougher as we are limited to just one day of testing, making it difficult to deal with the different conditions and different tire options in such a complex rally., He explains. But everyone is on an equal footing at this level, I will try to make the most of my experience. » An experience that he will have to use to make a difference against his teammate and contender for victory Kalle Rovanperä. The Finn is the man to beat in this internal duel which promises to be thrilling.

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