Start of Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique 2026
An MGRV8 is in the
2026 Monte CarloClassique/Historique Rally and got under way on Thursday 29th January 2026 at John O' Groats in Northeast Scotland.




Ecosse Rallye Drivers Club logo

Arrochar Alps & Col de Ruisg
See an earlier news item when Tony Smith was on the Arrrochar Alps event with his co-driver Richard Jenner preparing for the 100th anniversary Monte Classique/Historique Rally. Link


Posted: 260129

Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique
The exciting 28th Edition of the event runs from 29th January to 7th February 2026

The 28th Edition will bring together former winners, including two-time title holders Michel Decremer and Jennifer Hugo, as well as renowned drivers such as Bruno Saby (Renault 5 Turbo), Takuma Sato (Honda Civic RS), Maurizio Verini (Alfa Romeo Giulietta), Angelo Sticchi Damiani (Fiat 124 Abarth), Antonio Sainz Cenamor (Porsche 911 S), Luis Climent Asensio (BMW 323I), John Buffum (Ford Escort RS2000) and Michel Chabran (BMW 323I), the undisputed leader of the “Team des Chefs”, which will be celebrating its 20th anniversary at the start of the event. Link

Major New Features for 2026
The route has been completely redesigned and will include 18 Regularity Stages held on closed roads, ensuring enhanced safety and authenticity. The six starting points will offer competitors a variety of approaches before converging on the Principality.

The list of eligible vehicles has also been expanded to include all models that took part in the Rallye Monte-Carlo editions between 1911 and 1986. The MGRV8 has been included as a natural development of the popular MGB model from the 60s and 70s which was seen in many rallies. Three distinct average speed categories will be available, each with its own dedicated classification, offering a challenge suited to every crew profile. Finally, the use of a C.E.approved helmet will be mandatory on all closed-road sections.


Tony Smith and Richard Jenner
They're are in an MGRV8 on the 2026 Monte Carlo Historique Rally which gets under way today at John O’Groats. It's one of six departure points for the event, along with Bad Homburg in Germany, Barcelona in Spain, Turin in Italy, Reims in France and Monte Carlo itself.

Ready to set off