Colin McRae

McRae’s emotional style and technical brilliance turned him into a rally superstar, inspiring a new generation of drivers and fans alike.

• Subaru Impreza 555: His 1995 title-winning machine—an AWD turbocharged beast that became synonymous with his name.
• Ford Focus WRC: Drove for Ford from 1999 onward, helping to develop their new WRC challenger with multiple podiums and wins.
• Subaru Legacy RS: Early career car with which he began making waves on the international stage.

McRae’s aggressive throttle use and high-risk commitment perfectly suited the turbocharged AWD platforms of the 1990s.

Colin McRae embodied the philosophy of “if in doubt, flat out.” His commitment to maximum speed often yielded thrilling victories and equally dramatic crashes. Despite occasional inconsistency, his sheer pace and fighting spirit made him a legend. His 1995 championship remains a historic moment for British motorsport, and his legacy lives on through the Colin McRae Rally video game series and the enduring affection of rally fans worldwide.

McRae’s primary co-driver throughout the 1990s was Derek Ringer. Their partnership delivered both their championship in 1995 and a series of unforgettable drives. Later, he worked with Nicky Grist, forming another successful and steady pairing. Both combinations were vital in delivering calm, clear pacenotes to balance McRae’s fiery driving style.