Marino Franchitti becomes RBF patron

25th November 2011

By Anthony Peacock

On the 10^th anniversary of Richard Burns’ World Rally Championship, and the sixth anniversary of his death, Scotsman Marino Franchitti – a close friend of Richard’s – has been announced as a patron of the Richard Burns Foundation.

Franchitti is the latest addition to a distinguished number of patrons who have pledged their support to the charity, including Jason Plato, Marcus Gronholm, Markko Martin and Robert Reid.

“Richard was first and foremost a great friend and from that perspective, it is very important to me that his name continues to stand for something positive and enduring,” said Franchitti. “I am deeply touched and honoured to be asked to represent the Foundation.”

On this very special anniversary, a number of commemorations and fund-raising efforts have been taking place throughout the motorsport community. Items donated for auction include the gloves that Sebastien Ogier wore to win the Rallye de France and Pedro de la Rosa’s McLaren Formula One overalls.

There has also been a barrage of messages on Twitter. Marino’s brother Dario Franchitti wrote: “Remembering Richard Burns today. We were so lucky to watch him and Colin at the top of their game fighting it out. Both are greatly missed.”

And there were many, many more. To relive the amazing time when Richard and Robert won the title, read this incredible article by Robert on autosport.com. It makes you feel like you were actually in the car with them.

http://plus.autosport.com/premium/feature/4053/10-years-on-richard-burns-finest-hour/