From Turin to Monaco: rally history relives during Monte-Carlo Historique

TURIN – Barely a week after the traditional Monte Carlo Rally, engines were fired up again in Turin. On Sunday, February 1st, the 28th Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique kicked off there. Not on an anonymous industrial estate, but at the famous hunting lodge of Stupinigi. A place steeped in history. Nearly 300 historic rally cars were at the starting line. About seventy of them departed from Turin.

Text and photos: Peter Vader

Worldwide departure

Not all participants started in Italy. Other starting points included Barcelona, ​​Reims, Bad Homburg, and even John o' Groats in Scotland. The large number of starters made Turin the center of historic motorsport for a single day. The city, known for Juventus, FIAT, and its beautiful architecture, was all about rallying. Auto Motor Klassiek was there and saw motorsport culture in its purest form.

Back to roots

This year's edition felt like a journey back in time. Classic cars once again raced through high-altitude, snow-capped landscapes—a sight long missing. From Turin, the route led via Pinerolo and Sestriere toward France. The finish line is traditionally in Monaco. Thanks to the Automobile Club Torino, the rally has become a fixture in the city.

Strict inspection

Preparations began on Saturday at ACI headquarters. There, the cars were meticulously inspected. The requirements are strict, partly due to safety regulations. Engines and technology must be as original as possible. Teams often spend a whole year on maintenance and details. No quick cosmetic fixes, but pure automotive history on wheels. The atmosphere was warm. It felt like one big reunion.

Public enjoys

On Sunday morning, the starting field set off from the Automobile Club Torino under a radiant sun. In convoy, right among the daily traffic, they headed for Stupinigi. The highlight of the event followed in the large square in front of the hunting lodge. The cars were lined up in parc fermé. Spectators milled around them, admiring a mobile museum up close.

Starting shot sounds

The official starting signal sounded at 14:30 PM. A car departed every minute. The first time check was in Perosa, followed by Sestriere. The route then continued throughout the week via Gap, Valence, and Avignon towards Nice. Most of the rally will be driven in normal traffic. Points will be earned for consistency and precision. The real stages will come later.

Classic violence

The Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique isn't about pure speed. It's about control, reliability, and strategy. Cars from the 1950s through the 1980s are in action. Porsche was the most represented, with models including the 911 SC and 924 Turbo. Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Lancia made an impression.

Icons drive

The absolute eye-catcher was the Lancia Stratos, the legendary weapon of the seventies. Also the Fulvia HF, Fiat 124 Abarth and various Alfa's were there. Cars with a story. Cars with history. The rally ends in Monaco. There, sport and nostalgia collide. The Rally Monte Carlo Historique is an event that will remain etched in your memory forever.