McRae, the son of former World Rally Championship driver Alistair and nephew of 1995 WRC champion Colin, will travel from his Australian home to Europe to take part in a rally quartet, with the latter making his BRC debut.
The 17-year-old, who competed in this year’s Australian Rally Championship, is expected to drive a Ford Fiesta Rally3 or Rally4 in the Nicki Grist stages, the third round of the BRC on 9 July.
The rally, formerly known as the Quinton Stages, but now renamed after Colin McRae’s co-driver Nicki Grist, is based in Bildt Wales, Wales and has iconic forest gravel stages.
McRae will be the fourth member of the famous rally family to participate in the BRC. Jimmy’s grandfather is a five-time series champion, while Colin lifted the title in 1991 and 1992 before Max Alistair’s father won the crown in 1995.
The event will take place after trips to the International Rally Round in Donegal, which takes place at the Irish Asphalt Championships, the Speedwood Festival in Goodwood and the McRae Rally Challenge in Knockill in July. The latter will see how Max will deal with Alistair and Jimmy.
“I grew up listening to my dad’s stories about Donegal, and I just can’t wait to come in there and try myself,” Max McRay said.
“I’ve watched some of the boards on YouTube and the stages look amazing! The same goes for Nicki Christ, it seems to me that I’ve been on some of those roads since stories and videos.
“In 2019, I had the opportunity to check out some of Uncle Colin’s old cars at Walter’s Arena, part of the Reol scene, so I have some idea of how good Nicki Grist will be.
The McRae family has a long history in the UK Championship – Uncle Max Colin won his second title in 1992
Photo: Drawings of motorsport
“For Goodwood, everyone knows the Speed Festival. I know there are a lot of people flying out of Australia just this weekend. Going and being able to get in the car at an event is unrealistic.
“And here’s Knockill. It will be madness to compete with my father and grandfather for the first time. This will be my first time at the Fiesta Rally2, which I can’t expect.
“The whole McRae Rally Challenge will be special. Being close to people, like family and friends from all over the world, will make this weekend unforgettable – especially if I beat the old guys. “
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