WRC driver Craig Breen has died in a testing accident ahead of next week’s Croatia Rally.
Breen, who finished second to Ott Tanak at Rally Sweden in February, hit a pole near Lobora in Croatia on Thursday afternoon when driving his Hyundai car and passed away.
His co-driver James Fulton came away from the crash unhurt, Hyundai have confirmed.
“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,” read a statement from the team.
“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 was set to complete a part-time programme for the team this year, having driven for M-Sport in 2022.
The Irish driver had 82 WRC starts and nine podiums, having been a WRC Academy and Junior champion in 2011 and 2012.
