McRae splits with Grist

Colin McRae has split with co-driver Nicky Grist after admitting their in-car relationship had been strained for over a year, it was announced last night.

McRae will be partnered by fellow Scot Derek Ringer, with whom he won his world title in 1995, for the final two rallies of this season in Australia and Great Britain.

“This is a joint decision by myself and Nicky,” said McRae, who is leaving Ford at the end of this season to join Citroen.

“Our in-car relationship has been strained for the past 12 months or so and after long discussions we’ve decided that a change is the best way forward for both of us.

“Neither of us wish to go into specific details but this is an amicable parting and myself and Nicky have informed Ford Rally Sport of our decision.”