Marc Duez, a thrilling sideshow

Spectators at this year’s Rallye Monte-Carlo have been enjoying a spectacular and unusual treat on the stages, thanks to the Porsche GT3 of Marc Duez.

The Belgian ace is a former works driver in the World Rally Championship but now spends his time driving his thrilling rear-wheel-drive Porsche on asphalt rallies across Europe.

The FIA has agreed to let spectacular GT3 cars run on asphalt WRC events this season and Duez jumped at the chance to compete on his sixth Rallye Monte-Carlo in his Porsche.

“Compared to the four-wheel and front-wheel-drive cars we are a bit different,” the 56-year-old said. “It is a pleasure to do this rally because the car is spectacular and the public enjoy it. The noise is really good and creates a real atmosphere – especially in the dark.”

Although he is running some way down the start list, Duez said he has seen plenty of excited spectators on Rallye Monte-Carlo.

He added: “We can see from inside the car that the fans really love our car and they have obviously waited to see us pass through the stages. We have to think about the spectators and it is good to give them a different experience.”