In the world of World Rallying, the name Colin McRae often comes to mind when reminiscing about the sport’s golden days. However, for those in the know, the title of the most-talented Brit of the era goes to Richard Burns. This article takes a closer look at the final round of the 2000 season, Rally Great Britain, where Burns narrowly finished second in the championship to Marcus Gronholm.
**The Championship Showdown**
Heading into Rally Great Britain, the championship was a close battle between Burns and Gronholm. Burns needed to secure a victory at his home rally and hope for Gronholm to slip up in order to win the title. The competition was fierce, with both drivers pushing the limits of their machines to come out on top.
**The Nail-biting Action**
The final leg of the 2000 Rally GB was filled with intense moments as Burns fought back from an early mechanical issue to claim the lead. Gronholm, however, was not willing to give up easily, putting up a tough fight until the very end. The sheer driving talent on display from both drivers, as well as other top contenders, made for an unforgettable rally experience.
**Burns’s Triumph**
Despite his best efforts, Burns fell just short of clinching the championship, with Gronholm securing the title by a slim margin. The following season, however, would be Burns’s time to shine as he finally captured the WRC title with his Subaru team. The rivalry between Burns and McRae, who also had his fair share of highlight-reel moments, added to the excitement of the sport during that era.
**A Tragic Ending**
The legacy of Richard Burns was tragically cut short when he passed away from a brain tumor in 2005. His remarkable talent and contribution to the world of rallying will always be remembered, especially through bootleg footage like the one showcased in this article. Burns’s untimely death left fans wondering what more he could have achieved in the sport.
**The Debate Continues**
The debate over who was truly the most-talented rally driver of their era between Burns and McRae continues to this day. Both drivers had their own unique styles and approaches to racing, making it a tough call for fans to determine the ultimate champion. Despite their contrasting careers, both Burns and McRae left a lasting impact on the world of rallying and will forever be remembered as legends in the sport.