Richard Burns

Burns's progress through the 1990s laid the groundwork for his championship success, making him one of the most respected and methodical drivers of the era.

• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IV–V: Cut his WRC teeth with Mitsubishi, earning early attention for strong performances.
• Subaru Impreza WRC: Burns came into his own with Subaru in the late 1990s, using its agility and AWD power to great effect on mixed surfaces.

Burns’s technical driving style and focus on clean, efficient lines made him a perfect fit for Subaru’s balanced WRC platform.

Richard Burns was known for a calculated, cerebral approach behind the wheel. Unlike the high-risk, high-reward tactics of others, Burns prioritized tire management, precise lines, and mechanical preservation. By the end of the 1990s, he had matured into a complete driver—capable of stage wins, rally victories, and sustained title contention. His legacy, later cemented by his 2001 title, began with the strategic foundation he built during this formative decade.

Burns developed a strong partnership with co-driver Robert Reid, beginning in the 1990s. Their clear communication and shared analytical mindset helped them consistently challenge more aggressive duos. As a team, Burns and Reid became known for staying calm under pressure and executing long-term rally strategies with near-flawless precision.