The 33-year-old Irish driver was testing for next week's Croatian Rally.
MICKE FRANSSONGetty ImagesCraig Breen, the 33-year old Irish driver for Hyundai’s factory WRC team was killed today while testing for next week’s Croatian Rally, reports Autosport. Breen’s Hyundai I20 WRC went off the road during a team test in Poland and crashed. His co-driver, James Fulton, was unharmed.
“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,” the team said in a statement. “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.”
Breen rejoined Hyundai’s WRC effort this year after a tough 2022 with the M-Sport Ford team. He last competed in Rally Sweden, where he placed a career-best-equalling 2nd place. Over 81 events, Breen achieved a number of podiums in his WRC career, which started in 2009.
A very sad day for #wrc and motorsport, losing a great driver and character Craig Breen. pic.twitter.com/LSZcqnZLdJ
— Loeb_Seb1 (@Loeb_Seb1) April 13, 2023
In 2011, he won the junior WRC Academy Series and in 2012, he won the WRC’s Super 2000 series. In the European Rally Championship, he placed 3rd in 2013 and 2014 and 2nd in 2015, winning four events across those three seasons. His career also saw tragedy. A 2012 crash led to the death of co-driver Gareth Roberts, and Breen was celebrated for continuing with the sport.
Born in the Irish town of Waterford, Breen was the son of of Irish Rally champion Ray Breen, and raced karts before switching to rally in 2009. He rejoined Hyundai this year and was alternating with Dani Sordo in the team’s third car.
“The WRC family is shocked and saddened to learn of Craig Breen’s passing,” the series said in a statement. “Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of Craig at this incredibly sad time.”
Breen takes on the elements at Rally Sweden earlier this year.
MICKE FRANSSONGetty Images
From: Road & Track
Chris Perkins Senior Editor Chris Perkins is the Web Editor for Road & Track magazine.
Keyword: Craig Breen, Hyundai WRC Driver, Killed in Crash