Former world rally champion Richard Burns dies

0 Comments | AFP, November, 2005

LONDON (AFP) — Former world rally champion Richard Burns has died after failing to recover from a brain tumour. He was aged 34.

The only Englishman to win the prestigious driving title, in 2001, he underwent brain surgery to remove a tumour in April, but died on Friday with his close family and friends at his bedside.

His last race was in 2003 while leading the world championship. He was forced to stop racing after fainting at the wheel of his car while travelling to the Wales Rally GB.

"From the outset Richard knew that the odds were heavily against him and yet he fought his illness with bravery and good humour," the statement said.

"Having undergone both chemotherapy and radiotherapy he was able to leave hospital in summer 2004.

"For a...