Burns will replace Makinen Makinen calls it quits

Britain's Richard Burns is leaving Peugeot at the end of this season to rejoin Subaru after signing a two-year deal.

Burns currently leads this year's championship by five points but has yet to win a rally with Peugeot.

He won the drivers' crown with Subaru in 2001 before moving to the French team.

The 32-year-old will partner Norwegian driver Petter Solberg in 2004.

It will be his and co-driver Robert Reid's third stint at Subaru. Burns drove for them from 1993 to 1996 and, after three years at Mitsubishi, returned in 1999.

"Subaru are the team I've had the most success with," said Burns. "I'm really looking forward to being part of it again.

I believe our line-up for 2004 is second to none Subaru team boss David Lapworth

"For the time being though I'm putting thoughts of next year to the back of my mind.

"My focus is the current season, there's still a long way to go, and I'll continue to push 100% for the 2003 title."

Burns' announcement comes just hours after Finland's four-time world champion Tommi Makinen revealed he is to retire after seeing out this season with Subaru.

Team boss David Lapworth said: "I'm very excited about having Richard back on board.

"He's enjoyed a great deal of success, and with four seasons with the Impreza under his belt, he's sure to adapt quickly to the latest car.

"Richard and Petter are two of the most exciting drivers out there and with both of them driving for Subaru I believe our line-up for 2004 is second to none."