Factory M-Sport driver Pearson, from the Scottish Borders town of Duns, headed to the second round of the 2025 BRC in fine form, having fought at the front of the East Riding Stages in February and claiming victory in the non-championship Malcolm Wilson Rally in March.
Alongside co-driver Hannah McKillop, Pearson nevertheless faced a huge challenge in the world famous Kielder forest, up against drivers with World and European Rally Championship experience.
Yet despite his comparative lack of experience, he looked like he belonged. Fifth fastest on the opening stage, Pearson continued that rhythm through the morning to settle into fourth place – despite a small handbrake issue that hampered his progress.
The M-Sport team fixed the Scotsman’s Ford Fiesta Rally2 in service, giving Pearson the tool he needed to fight. Moving up to third after stage four, Pearson didn’t disappoint and converted – securing his first podium of the season, and first of his career within the opening two rounds.
Garry Pearson said: “This is what all our hard work is for. Having shown our pace on the opening round, it was fantastic to match that with the result on stages as challenging as those in Kielder.
“It wasn’t the most straightforward of days but we knuckled down, and as always M-Sport proved why they are the best in the business – sorting out our little issues to keep us in the hunt.
“What I’m proudest of however is the clear evidence of the work Hannah and I have put in over the winter. I think it’s noticeable the step up we’ve made in pace and long may it continue, but having tasted the champagne on round two we are only thirstier for more.
“I must say congratulations to our team-mate Romet Jurgenson who took the win, securing a 1-3 for M-Sport. For myself, it was cool to share the podium with two Junior World Rally champions, but our aim is to be beating them soon.
“Next up is my home event, the Jim Clark Rally, so naturally I am looking forward to that, but the hard work has already begun.”
