Quadruple champion Burns limits 2022 co-driving plans

After a perfect 2021 rallying season, Sligo co-driver Niall Burns has faced reality and is reducing his commitments in 2022.

Burns won four major rally championships alongside Garry Pearson last year but with the Scotsman going on a full British Rally Championship tilt, Burns has decided now is the time to take a step back.

“After 17 years of rallying taking up so much time there was always a year that it would have to take a back seat,” explained Burns. “It is a pity to have to step aside before a promising season for Garry.

“I’m getting married this summer and increasing work commitments mean that I can’t give Garry’s programme all the time that it requires.

“I want to wish Garry and his new co-driver all the best and no doubt they will be fighting for the title.

“Last year was such a good season with Garry and hopefully we’ll compete together again sometime in the future.”

Burns competed in 17 rallies between July and November last year. His British National, BTRDA, Welsh, and Scottish titles with Pearson were obvious highlights.

Pearson’s BRC challenge will still feature Burns as part of the bigger team. He’ll help with testing and might even return for some rallies outside the British Championship.

Welsh co-driver Dale Furniss will step in for Pearson’s latest campaign.

Burns has started the year with two outings alongside Aidan Wray and it looks like he’ll stick mainly to events closer to home that are less time consuming.

As for 2023, Burns is hoping he can return to a full championship attack after sampling success with Pearson last year.

Photos courtesy of British Rally Championship