CRAIG BREEN was one of the world’s most popular rally car drivers to ever touch a course.
But the Irish icon tragically lost his life during a test event in Poland
Craig Breen tragically passed away at age 33
The news has shocked the motorsport industry as Breen was set to figure in the 2023 Croatia Rally which gets underway next week.
And has knowledge on the car Breen was driving when the horrific accident took place.
What car was Craig Breen driving?
Breen, 33, drove for the works Hyundai Motorsport team and was conducting a pre-event test in his i20 N Rally 1 when the fatal incident happened.
His co-driver James Fulton was also in the car but he escaped from the crash unharmed.
The Irish star had been a mainstay in the top level of rallying since 2014 but Breen’s racing career began in karts before making the switch to rallying in 2007.
He made his debut at a WRC event at the 2009 Rally Portugal in a Ford Fiesta ST and then raced at the highest level for Citroen, Hyundai and M-Sport.
What has Craig Breen won?
Craig became the WRC academy champion in 2011 and the rally superstar secured the second-tier SWRC championship in 2012.
Unfortunately, Breen didn’t manage to get his hands on a European championship.
But the Irishman did land two podiums on his way to seventh during his first full-time drive as the lead driver for M-Sport.
He was also runner-up in the 2015 European Rally Championship.
And outside of Breen’s WRC exploits, he raced at the Goodwood Revival in 2022 where a number of classic rally cars took to the track.
What has been said?
A statement from the WRC said: “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 Mohammed Ben Sulayem also paid his condolences, writing: “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.”
