The 2024 FIA World Rally Championship began in a fittingly spectacular fashion on Thursday evening as thousands of fans headed to the Les Tourniquets, northwest of Monaco to get the first taste of action.

The 70 competing cars were given a royal send off from Casino Square in Monaco as The Prince of Monaco was present to see the competitors depart for the opening two stages in the French Alps.

As is the case in endurance motorsport, it appears that the WRC is rising in popularity with viewing figures up by 15% across the 100 watching countries compared to the start of the 2023 season.

On the roads after the first two stages, Welshman Elfyn Evans secured a 15.1 sec lead in his Toyota Yaris GR Rally1 in freezing conditions. The action continues in the French Alps before heading back to Monaco on Sunday afternoon for the finish.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Red Bull Content Pool