Burns was a fierce rival - McRae.

1995 world rally champion, Colin McRae has said that the world of rallying will be a poorer place following the death of Richard Burns Friday night.

Speaking to Reuters, McRae added that the Englishman was a 'true character' and a 'fierce rival'.

"Richard was a friend and at the same time a very fierce rival," McRae confirmed.

"We had many great battles together, notably the 2001 Rally GB when he took the [world rally] championship.

"I have seen Richard on a number of occasions during the past two years and the greatest battle he has put up was against his illness.

"Richard was a true character in the world of rallying and will be sadly missed as a competitor and a friend to many people. My thoughts are with Richard, Zoe [his partner], his family and all his close friends that have supported him during the last two years."