Burns calls for mutual respect

The Englishman, who became only the second British World Rally Champ since the drivers' series started in 1979, has shown distaste for some of McRae's pre-event comments. But he also intends to hold the Scot to his belief that the eventual champion would be a worthy one.

"Some of the things that Colin said before the rally simply weren't true and he knows it," said Burns. "But what he also said - which I think he'll stick to - was that whoever wins the championship will have deserved it. I hope he still feels that."

Burns says that the respectful relationship between the pair will continue, despite the hype leading up to the Rally GB and McRae's error of judgement that led to his spectacular retirement.

"Colin was fantastically fast over those first few stages," said Burns, "and we all know he's not a worse driver because of what happened on the Rally GB. I see no reason why our attitudes towards each other should change."

The respect appears to be mutual, since McRae has phoned Burns to congratulate him on his title - and warn him to expect an even stiffer challenge in 2002.

Burns and navigator Robert Reid are scheduled to appear on this Saturday's Grandstand programme on BBC1. Highlights of the Rally GB will be shown at 1455, with the victorious duo chatting on the couch immediately afterwards.