The legendary Monza Rally Show, a staple of rallying since the late 1970s, is back with its classic blend of high-speed competition and festive exhibition. This year’s event, held at the historic Monza Circuit, promises a spectacular mix of world-class rally talent and motorsport celebrities, culminating in a semi-competitive showdown that blends skill and showmanship.
The Stars Align at Monza
This year’s event brings a glittering roster of rally champions and motorsport icons:
- Thierry Neuville, the newly crowned world champion.
- Sébastien Ogier, eight-time WRC champion and Monza Rally Show veteran.
- WRC2 champion Sami Pajari, ERC champion Hayden Paddon, and Italian champion Andrea Crugnola headline the Rally2 field.
- Adrien Fourmaux makes his final appearance in an M-Sport Ford before joining Hyundai in 2025.
- Vincenzo Nibali, the legendary cyclist and Grand Tour winner, debuts in a GR Yaris, showcasing Monza’s unique appeal beyond motorsport.
Rally1 and Rally2 Giants Battle for Glory
The Masters Rally Show on Sunday will feature a thrilling timed competition involving Rally1 and Rally2 cars. While the Rally1s dominate on power, the tight confines of the Masters course will test driver finesse, giving Rally2 drivers a fighting chance.
Drivers to watch include:
- Neuville and Ogier in their Rally1 machines.
- Crugnola, the 2019 Monza winner, in his Citroën C3 Rally2.
- Rising star Nikolay Gryazin, switching to a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2.
Historic Roots, Modern Revival
Since its inception in 1978, the Monza Rally Show has evolved from a local exhibition to an international motorsport spectacle. Over the decades:
- Lancia legends dominated the early years.
- Formula 1 stars like Nicola Larini and Giancarlo Fisichella added flair in the 1990s.
- Rally icons Colin McRae and Sébastien Loeb brought global attention in the 2000s.
Amid the pandemic, Monza stepped up as a WRC season finale in 2020 and 2021, crowning Ogier as champion in both years.
What to Expect in 2024
With nine stages covering 105 miles, the 2024 Monza Rally Show is no mere exhibition. The action kicks off on Friday, December 6, with two stages on the famous Autodromo and Roggia circuits. Saturday brings two epic 20.6-mile Grand Prix stages, blending Monza’s modern track with its historic oval. The finale on Sunday features tight, technical challenges and the fan-favorite Masters Rally Show.
Full Schedule
Friday, December 6
- SS1 Autodromo 1 (6.7 miles) – 13:42
- SS2 Roggia 1 (7.2 miles) – 16:31
Saturday, December 7
- SS3 Roggia 2 (7.2 miles) – 08:02
- SS4 Grand Prix 1 (20.6 miles) – 10:51
- SS5 Grand Prix 2 (20.6 miles) – 13:32
- SS6 Parabolica 1 (7 miles) – 16:12
- SS7 Parabolica 2 (7 miles) – 18:42
Sunday, December 8
- SS8 Autodromo 2 (6.7 miles) – 08:02
- SS9 Roccolo 1 (12.7 miles) – 10:51
The Spirit of Monza
The Monza Rally Show isn’t just about speed; it’s a celebration of motorsport’s past, present, and future. With its unique mix of rally legends, rising stars, and cross-discipline participants, this year’s event promises unforgettable action both on and off the track. Get ready for a motorsport spectacle like no other.