RALLY driver Craig Breen has tragically passed away during a test event in Poland.
Breen was preparing for the 2023 Croatia Rally, which was due to take place next week, when his Hyundai went off road and crashed.
The 33-year-old succumbed to his injuries, but his co-driver James Fulton survived the crash unharmed.
The world of motorsport is now in mourning for Breen, who began rallying in 2007.
Who was Craig Breen?
Breen began karting for the first time in 1999 as a 9-year-old and was the son of Ray Breen, an Irish rally champion.
It was 10 year later that Breen made the full-time move to rallying, where he competed in the Irish and British Fiesta Sporting Trophies, winning both.
Breen earns himself a contract with M-Sport and he was crowned Young Irish Rally Driver of the Year.
In 2012, tragedy struck as Breen’s co-driver Gareth Roberts was killed during the Intercontinental Rally Challenge.
Breen went on to enjoy success later in his career with multiple podiums, having signed deals with Peugeot and M-Sport Rally Team.
However, Breen failed to win a championship before his tragic death.
Most read in Motorsport
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.”
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
