Rallye Monte-Carlo Stage Cancelled After Spectator Injuries Prompt Safety Concerns

The fifth special stage of the iconic Rallye Monte-Carlo was abruptly cancelled after an incident involving injured spectators. The stage, which was to take place between Saint-Léger-les-Mélèzes and La Bâtie-Neuve, saw emergency medical teams deployed to assist those affected. Organizers decided to cancel the stage to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators, underscoring the event's commitment to safety.

As a result of the cancellation, competitors were rerouted directly to La Bréole to commence the sixth special stage (SS6) at 11:42 AM. The incident led to a temporary halt in the racing action, but no further details on the condition of the injured spectators have been released at this time.

In terms of competition standings, Welsh driver Elfyn Evans holds a slender lead, maintaining a mere eight-tenths of a second advantage over Belgian rival Thierry Neuville, with Frenchman Sébastien Ogier trailing closely. In the Rally2 class, Nikolay Gryazin leads, followed by Yohan Rossel, as the race continues amid heightened safety measures.