The Motor Sport Association has paid tribute to Kris Meeke after he successfully wrapped up the Intercontinental Rally Challenge title in San Remo.

The Peugeot UK driver had admitted that his best hope of securing the title was likely to come in the season finale in Scotland, but when Skoda rival Jan Kopecky crashed out in San Remo, the title was there for the taking.

Meeke duly wrapped up victory ahead of Luca Rossetti and Nicolas Vouolloz to clinch the crown, with his success drawing praise from MSA chief executive Colin Hilton.

“On behalf of the UK governing body, I would like to congratulate Kris and Paul [Nagle] on their fabulous achievement in claiming the IRC title,” he said. “They have consistently performed at the highest level this year and are deserving champions; we look forward to seeing them on Rally of Scotland in November for a proper celebration.

“For British motor sport, international success is essential to delivering on our ambitions to grow the sport. We will continue to invest in the next generation to ensure that the future Kris Meekes, Lewis Hamiltons and Jenson Buttons get every opportunity to make the most of their talents.

“We should also recognise the contribution of Peugeot UK to this success. Their support and investment in Kris and Paul has now been repaid many times over and their experience should demonstrate to other manufacturers and brands the great returns that can be had from really getting behind our British drivers.”