Learn about “Craig Breen Fatal Accident:” Craig Breen, the renowned Irish rally driver, has passed away while testing for the Croatia Rally. The Waterford native had been competing part-time in the World Rally Championship (WRC) for the Hyundai team and had won the WRC Super 2000 world rally championship in 2012. With decades of experience in the field, Breen had gained significant fame and fortune throughout his long and remarkable career.
The tragic news of Craig Breen’s passing has deeply shocked the entire sports world. It is heartbreaking to learn that such a talented young athlete has died in an accident. In the following paragraphs, we will examine the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
Craig Breen Dies in Tragic Accident During Croatia Rally Pre-Event Test
The sports world is mourning the unexpected loss of rally driver Craig Breen, who tragically passed away during the pre-event test for the Croatia Rally. Breen’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the industry, leaving fans and fellow racers in disbelief.[1, 2]
Craig Breen Fatal Accident
The 33-year-old Irish driver was killed in a crash that occurred during the pre-event test for the Croatia Rally on Thursday, April 13, 2023. According to reports, the fatal accident took place at 11 pm (Irish time). Hyundai Motorsport, Breen’s team, broke the news of his death on social media.
The World Rally Championship team expressed deep sadness and shock over the loss of Craig Breen. The team’s official statement read, “Hyundai Motorsport is extremely saddened to inform the public that the Irish driver Craig Breen died in today’s accident during the Croatia Rally pre-event test.”[3]
Breen’s Career Highlights
Craig Breen had established himself as a prominent figure in the rally world, with an impressive track record that included a string of podium finishes. He won the Billy Coleman Award and was named the Young Irish Rally Driver of the Year in recognition of his achievements. Breen also won the 2012 WRC Super 2000 world rally championship.
In February 2023, Breen came in second to Ott Tanak at the Rally Sweden in his first season-opening WRC start. He was driving for Hyundai Shell Mobis WRT in the 2023 World Rally Championship before his untimely death.
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Tributes Pour In
The World Rally Championship expressed its condolences to Breen’s family and friends, stating that the WRC family is “shocked and devastated” by his death. Kalle Rovanpera, the current WRC champion, paid tribute to Breen, saying, “Rest in peace, Craig. Tonight, my thoughts are with his bereaved family.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Jean Todt extended their condolences to Breen’s loved ones and the rally community at this difficult time. Aiden Harper, head of Motorsport Ireland, also expressed his sadness, stating that the Irish motorsport community has been “numbed by this tragic news.”
Craig Breen’s Family
Craig Breen was the son of Ray Breen, an Irish rallying national champion. Breen started karting in Ireland in 1999 and switched to rallying full-time in 2009. He won all three championships while competing in the Irish, British, and International Fiesta Sporting Trophies.
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Summary
The loss of Craig Breen has left a huge void in the rally world, and he will be greatly missed by fans, fellow racers, and the entire sports community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.