Gardemeister enters Rallye Monte-Carlo

Toni Gardemeister has entered the centenary edition of Rallye Monte-Carlo, the opening round of next year’s Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

Gardemeister, from Finland, has yet to confirm what car he will use on the event but believes he can fight for victory after scoring two podium finishes on the famous rally in the past.

"We’ve entered the rally because there is a promise of free entry for 100 drivers," said the 35-year-old. "It is more than 50 per cent sure I will be there but I am still trying to find the right possibilities for the car and will see what is going on. If I can get a competitive car with a good tyre package then I believe I can win, why not? But if I want to get a good result in Monte for sure I need to test the car a lot before. Hopefully I can get this deal."

Gardemeister’s last appearance on the IRC qualifier last January ended in retirement when his Abarth Grande Punto S2000 broke down on the final morning of the event after he had challenged for a points finish.