Hyundai's Thierry Neuville launched the season in impressive fashion, clinching victory at the Monte Carlo Rally on Sunday after a closely contested battle with Toyota's eight-time world champion, Sebastien Ogier.
Starting the final day with just a 3.3-second gap, Neuville led the way, while Ogier aimed for a record-extending 10th Monte Carlo win on the French Alps' home asphalt roads.
Neuville extended his lead by winning the first two stages on Sunday, creating a 13.5-second gap before sealing the triumph with a 16.1-second advantage over Ogier in the final Col de Turini Power Stage. This victory marked Neuville's second career win at Monte Carlo and the 20th of his overall career.
The intense competition saw Elfyn Evans, Toyota's primary title contender in the absence of reigning world rally champion Kalle Rovanpera, secure a spot on the podium.
With Rovanpera taking a break, Evans played a crucial role, completing the rally in the third position. The Monte Carlo Rally's challenging stages and the duel between Neuville and Ogier set the stage for an exhilarating start to the 2024 rally season.
Thierry Neuville's performance not only secured a remarkable victory but also showcased Hyundai's prowess in the challenging rally conditions.
The win at Monte Carlo adds to Neuville's impressive rally career, emphasizing his skill and determination on the demanding terrains of one of the iconic events in the World Rally Championship calendar.
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