Wembley Stadium and The Race of Champions pay tribute to Colin McRae
17 September 2007
Wembley Stadium and The Race of Champions has today paid tribute to rally driving legend Colin McRae, who died at the weekend after his helicopter crashed near to his home in Lanark, Scotland.
McRae, who won the World Rally Championship in 1995 and The Race of Champions in 1998, was due to compete in this year's Race of Champions at Wembley Stadium.
Formula One legend David Coulthard, who was due to partner McRae in Team Scotland for this year’s Race of Champions, paid tribute to his friend and fellow Scot:
"He was fearless, flamboyant, blindingly quick in the car. He was very down-to-earth, matter-of-fact that he was so good. He had all the good Scottish traits.
"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.
"Colin was a remarkable man who wore his heart on this sleeve and was the epitome of a racer; fearless and attacking, yet he remained true to his roots and grounded despite the international fame and recognition that he achieved. The world is a sorrier place without him."
 |
| Colin McRae at Wembley Stadium |
Fredrik Johnsson, President of IMP, organisers of The Race of Champions also paid tribute, "Colin was a very good friend who has been participating in our event for more than 15 years. He was one of the most spectacular drivers and hugely appreciated by everyone both on and off the track."
"Colin will be deeply missed at the event by organisers, drivers and fans alike. At this painful time our thoughts are with Colin's wife Alison and all his family. Together with Michele Mouton and everyone at The Race of Champions, we extend our sincere condolences to the McRae family."
The team at Wembley Stadium also paid their respects, Jonathan Gregory, Marketing and Commercial Director said:
"The team at the stadium, as well as racing fans up and down the country were looking forward to seeing Colin perform at Wembley later this year. I was fortunate enough to be able to personally meet and welcome Colin when he visited the stadium back in June to help launch The Race of Champions. I found Colin to be an extremely warm and charismatic character who was exceptionally passionate about his sport. Our thoughts are with Colin’s family and friends at this very sad time and to all those affected by this terrible tragedy.”
McRae competed in 146 world rallies, winning 25, and made a huge contribution to motorsport over his 21-year career, thrilling fans with his 100% committed driving style.
He first participated in The Race of Champions in 1991 and became a regular after that, winning the event in 1998 and reaching the semi-finals in both the individual Race of Champions and The ROC Nations Cup last year with his teammate David Coulthard at Paris' Stade de France.
The stadium’s flag will fly at half mast today as a sign of respect.