Renault Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr. is to make his non-competitive rallying debut in Monte Carlo this weekend.
Sainz Jr. is to pilot one of the organiser’s Renault Megane R.S course cars through the 13.58km La Cabanette-Col de Braus Power Stage on Sunday before the WRC regulars battle it out for the five bonus points.
Sainz Jr.’s father Carlos Sainz won the Rallye Monte Carlo three times during his distinguished career.
“I’m really looking forward to experiencing Rallye Monte-Carlo for the first time,” he said.
“I’ve heard so much about it from my dad – how difficult the stages are, how the conditions can change in an instant from snow to rain or bright sunshine and of course how you need nerves of steel for some of those mountain passes and hairpins!
“It’s going to be a real thrill to take part in such a legendary event behind the wheel of a Renault Mégane R.S, which will be fitted with snow and studded tyres so I can get a more complete sensation of rallying around these stages.”
This weekend’s event marks the start of the 2018 World Rally Championship.
