December 16th’s Race of Champions is going to seem awful empty without Colin McRae – but his brother Alister will be there to fly the flag for Scotland, it has been announced.
The younger McRae is no stranger to the event, having been beaten by his brother in the ’98 Race of Champions final.
He said: “It will be difficult to be there but when Colin competed he always put on a good show. I know Colin wouldn’t want me sitting about and dwelling on things.
“Being there in his place will be difficult for me but hopefully we will do him proud. He has a reputation of going very well at the Race of Champions so it’s an honour to race for him.
“It’s supposed to be an end of year bit of fun, but everyone wants to win. As far as Colin was concerned, it was about driving as quick as possible and being spectacular.”
He will partner Formula One driver David Coulthard, who recalled at the time of Colin McRae’s death: “I competed in the Race of Champions with him because of my respect for him – I remember him urging me on, telling to get the finger out for Scotland.”
ROC organisers are very aware of the gaping hole left by the death of the 1995 World Rally Champion. Fredrik Johnsson, president of event organisers IMP, said: “Losing Colin was a tragedy. He was one of the sport’s best-loved competitors and a very good friend so we want to pay tribute to him at Wembley.”
ROC also includes this tribute video on its website:
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