Ogier Leads Monte Carlo After Evans' Error

Sebastien Ogier took the lead in the World Rally Championship's Monte Carlo Rally after capitalizing on a mistake by Toyota teammate Elfyn Evans, who had initially led the event. Ogier, an eight-time world champion, moved into first place with a 12.6 second advantage after Evans spun during stage eight. Thierry Neuville of Hyundai initially led after Thursday's stages but dropped back after a mishap on a tight right hairpin caused damage to his car, dropping to ninth overall. Hyundai's Ott Tanak and Adrien Fourmaux, along with Toyota's Kalle Rovanpera, also faced challenges, with Tanak losing his tailgate and Rovanpera struggling with new Hankook tires. The rally saw various other incidents, including Ogier and Sami Pajari running wide and Pajari losing a wheel, as drivers adapted to the new conditions and equipment in the 2025 season opener.