The 27th edition of the Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique concluded in spectacular fashion, with Belgian duo Michel Decremer and Jennifer Hugo clinching victory once again. Driving their 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia TI, the reigning champions dominated the rally with consistency and precision, proving their mastery of regularity racing. Their triumph was not only a testament to their skill but also a tribute to the meticulous preparation and teamwork that define this legendary event.
A Victory of Strategy and Precision
Unlike their previous win, Decremer and Hugo opted for a different challenge this year, competing in the low average speed class—a strategic decision that required an entirely different approach to the 18 regularity stages. Competing against 30 other crews in this category, they had to navigate the same treacherous roads as the high-speed class but with an even greater emphasis on precision and consistency. Their ability to maintain the perfect rhythm across the winding roads of the Drôme and Ardèche regions ultimately secured them the top spot.
For Decremer, this marks a third overall victory at the event, having first triumphed in 2017 with Yannick Albert in an Opel Ascona 2000.
The Unsung Heroes: Co-Drivers and the Art of Regularity
While the spotlight often falls on the drivers, the co-drivers play an equally crucial role in a rally that demands flawless synchronization between speed, navigation, and timekeeping. Jennifer Hugo, like many co-drivers, acted as both a human GPS and timekeeper, ensuring they stayed on the precise pace required to secure victory.
In the past, precision had to be calculated manually using a stopwatch and a calculator—before the introduction of modern electronic aids like the “Crisartech” pacer, which helps calculate optimal passing times. Even with this technology, however, a co-driver must constantly adjust for the driver’s style, terrain changes, and unpredictable elements of the route.
Recognizing the importance of keeping the sport’s human element alive, the Automobile Club de Monaco has recently introduced regulations to limit the use of electronic navigation aids. The goal is clear: to ensure that skill, rather than technology, remains the deciding factor in Monte-Carlo.
The Legendary Turini: A Grand Finale
No edition of the Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique would be complete without the Col de Turini, the mythical mountain pass that has tested the greatest rally drivers in history. This year was no exception. The final two stages included the treacherous ascent from La Bollène-Vésubie to Moulinet, a stretch that has become synonymous with the rally’s toughest challenges.
Before tackling the legendary pass, the remaining 193 crews regrouped at the Quai Albert-Ier in Monaco for a much-needed break. Some used the time to rest, while others meticulously reviewed their notes, making final preparations for the last leg of the competition.
Sitting in the heart of the F1 paddock, at the foot of La Rascasse, the moment was also a dream come true for many motorsport fans and enthusiasts soaking up the atmosphere.
A Rally of Legends, Past and Present
The Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique 2025 once again lived up to its reputation as one of the most challenging and prestigious classic car rallies in the world. With a strategic masterclass from Decremer and Hugo, and the ever-present mystique of the Col de Turini, this year’s edition was a thrilling celebration of motorsport’s golden age.
As the winners take their place on the podium at the gala and prize-giving ceremony, one thing is certain: the Monte-Carlo Historique is a test of endurance, precision, and the unbreakable bond between driver and co-driver.
