WRC driver Craig Breen dies during a testing crash

World Rally Championship (WRC) driver Craig Breen has passed away after an accident during testing with Hyundai in Poland. The Irishman was preparing for Rally Croatia, which will take place next week.

Hyundai released a statement on Thursday to confirm that Breen lost his life after the accident.

"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 statement read.

"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."

Second in Sweden

Breen was the third driver for Hyundai, the brand he returned to this year after having parting ways with M-Sport Ford. In his debut with Hyundai in 2023, he finished second in Rally Sweden.

That is the best position he had managed in a world championship event, having also finished second previously in Sweden 2018, Estonia 2020 and 2021, Belgium 2021 and Sardinia 2022.

Dani Sordo's teammate

Breen alternated with Dani Sordo as the team's third drivers, with Thierry Neuville and Esapekka Lappi being the main stars. The team is managed by Cyril Abiteboul, former head of Renault in F1.

His co-driver died 11 years ago

It so happens that 11 years ago, on June 16, 2012, his co-driver Gareth Roberts, nicknamed 'Jaffa', also died in an accident during the Targa Fiorio Rally in Sicily. The two men had become champions in the Junior WRC in 2011 with a Ford Fiesta.

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