Paris-Dakar may count McRae out of WRC role
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Colin McRae has confirmed he will make his Paris-Dakar Rally debut in January. The 35-year-old former World Rally champion will drive for Nissan on the gruelling three-week event.
"It's something I've always wanted to do," said McRae. "I always enjoyed the safari, especially the old safaris, an event where you could pace yourself. But it's very much a learning year for me."
McRae's decision calls into question whether he will be able to replace Richard Burns in the World Rally Championship next year after his fellow Brit was ruled out on Monday by a brain tumour.
Although the Paris-Dakar ends five days before the new season starts in Monte Carlo, it will be hard for McRae to test for both Subaru and Nissan. Subaru need a replacement for the WRC after the shock news about Burns, who was due to return to the team next season.
McRae, who lost his WRC drive at Citroën following changes to the regulations, will have Tina Thorner, a vastly experienced Swede, as a co-driver for the Paris-Dakar Rally. Thorner has previously co-driven for the four-times winner Ari Vatanen, the 1981 World Rally champion, who will also drive a Nissan on the Paris-Dakar which starts in Auvergne, France, on 1 January.
The 26th staging of the event will be a 6,600-mile test over 17 stages taking in France, Spain, Morocco, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso and Senegal.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments