Irish motorsport is mourning the tragic death of World Rally Championship driver Craig Breen, who lost his life while testing in Croatia today. The 33-year-old had been a shining light for Irish motorsport in recent years.
Breen was taking part in a pre-test event ahead of Croatia Rally when the incident occurred at around 11am Irish time. His co-driver James Fulton was unharmed.
He had been preparing for his second outing of the 2023 season as Hyundai's third driver after returning to the team following a spell with M-Sport-Ford last year.
Hyundai confirmed the terrible news in a statement released on Thursday.
Hyundai Motorsport is deeply saddened to confirm that driver Craig Breen today lost his life following an accident during the pre-event test for Croatia Rally,
Co-driver James Fulton was unharmed in the incident that occurred just after midday local time.
Hyundai Motorsport sends its sincerest condolences to Craig’s family, friends and his many fans.
Hyundai Motorsport will make no further comment at this time.
The World Racing Championship also released a statement on the tragic news.
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 https://t.co/xdN9qkxlXw
— World Rally Championship (@OfficialWRC) April 13, 2023
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.
FIA president Ben Sulayem also paid his respects to the Waterford native saying:
On behalf of the FIA, I extend sincere condolences to the family & friends of Craig Breen following his passing during a private testing accident in Croatia. Our thoughts & prayers are with his loved ones & the Rally community at this difficult time.
Craig Breen, whose father had been an Irish champion also, started full-time rally driving back in 2009 and moved into the WRC Academy two years later.
After moving up the WRC2 and junior ranks, he made his first WRC appearance for Abu Dhabi Total World Rally team.
In 2015, he won the Circuit of Ireland rally alongside co-driver Scott Martin.
Breen made a number of podium finishes across his fantastic career and was held in high esteem by everyone in the racing world.
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