Monte Carlo to use part of GP course

The famous Monaco Grand Prix circuit will be partly used for the first spectator superspecial on the Monte Carlo Rally since 1997, as reported in this week's Autosport

Tim Redmayne Aug 10, 2006, 4:23 PM

Crews will go head-to-head in groups of two on the lower part of the circuit for two laps on Sunday morning. The lap will take in the start-finish straight, swimming pool complex and Rascasse corner, but will not head up the hill to the area around the famous Casino Square.

For the first time in its recent history, the rally headquarters will be outside of the Principality in Valence - which also hosts the service park on Friday and Saturday. The finish ramp and prize-giving will still take place outside Monaco's royal palace as has become event tradition.

The radically revamped route will also include two night stages to kick off the event on Thursday evening.

Clerk of the Course Rene Isoart said: "We are very pleased to be bringing the event back to its historic roots, and we hope this is going to attract plenty of amateur drivers as well as the professionals."