Swedish driver Oliver Solberg has started the Monte Carlo Rally with a dream performance, leading overwhelmingly after Thursday's stages. The 24-year-old from Värmland impressed especially on the second special stage in the French Alps. He now leads by 44.2 seconds ahead of second-place Elfyn Evans.
Oliver Solberg, a 24-year-old driving for Toyota, has made a sensational start in the 2026 WRC opener in Monte Carlo. The rally, taking place on the snow-covered and challenging roads of the French Alps, began with Solberg securing second place on the first special stage. On the second stage, he demonstrated his prowess by being 31.1 seconds faster than second-place Elfyn Evans, enough to take the overall lead in the competition.
After three out of 17 stages, Solberg now leads by 44.2 seconds ahead of Evans. However, the third stage was interrupted due to thick fog before all drivers could complete it. Solberg described the experience as intense: “My God, that was the craziest thing I've ever done in my life. I thought I was going to go off the road so many times,” he told Rally TV after the second stage.
Hailing from Värmland in Sweden, Solberg has previously shown promise in the rally world, but this start marks a strong opening to the WRC season. The event continues with more challenges on the slippery and weather-dependent roads, where Ogier and other top drivers pose potential threats. The Monte Carlo Rally highlights the unique conditions of the event, known for its mix of snow, ice, and fog that test drivers' skills to the utmost.
