Irish World Rally Championship driver Craig Breen has died in an accident at a pre-event test in Croatia.
The 33-year-old’s Hyundai Motorsport team confirmed that the Waterford man had been involved in the incident at about 11:00 BST on Thursday.
Breen’s co-driver James Fulton was unharmed in the accident, which occurred before the Croatia Rally.
“Hyundai Motorsport sends its sincerest condolences to Craig’s family, friends and his many fans,” the team said.
Breen had rejoined Hyundai for the new WRC season having spent a year with the M-Sport Ford World Rally team.
The 33-year-old finished second to Ott Tanak at Rally Sweden in February in his first WRC start of the season.
The WRC said on Twitter: “The WRC family is shocked and saddened to learn of Craig Breen’s passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of Craig at this incredibly sad time.”
Breen, whose father Ray was an Irish champion, began his racing career in karting before moving into full-time rallying in 2009.
He moved to the WRC Academy in 2011 and after moving up the junior and WRC2 ranks made his first WRC appearance when driving selected rounds for the Abu Dhabi Total World Rally team.
Breen collected a series of podium finishes over the years and had become a popular figure on the circuit.
Current WRC champion Kalle Rovanpera was one of those paying tribute to Breen: “Rest in peace Craig. My thoughts are tonight with your family and friends.”
Source – BBC Sport
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