Motorsport World Mourns The Tragic Loss Of Rally Driver Craig Breen: "Left Us All Feeling Empty"
Hyundai Motorsports has confirmed the passing of Irish rally driver Craig Breen today. Fans and members of the motoring industry have been sharing their tributes for the driver since the news was released.
It has been reported that Breen and his co-driver James Fulton were practicing for the upcoming fourth stage of the World Rally Championship in Croatia, when they crashed into a pole. The injuries sustained by Breen were tragically fatal. Fulton was lucky to survive the accident.
The statement from Hyundai Motorsports read:
“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.
“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.”
Eight time World Rally Champion Sebastien Ogier shared an emotional message, writing:
"I’m lost for words... Everyone loved Craig for his great Irish character and his enthusiasm for our sport. My thoughts are with his family and friends in this very sad time. RIP Craig, we will miss you"
British racing driver Tiff Needell wrote to Twitter calling Breen "one of the nicest drivers across the whole world of motorsport". He posted:
"No, no, no. This is just awful. One of the nicest drivers across the whole world of motorsport, who always spoke of how lucky he was to be able to perform in a sport he so loved has been lost. RIP Craig"
Former Ford Performance senior manager Gerard Quinn also shared a heartfelt message to the social media platform, writing:
"All I can think about right now is this smile. Fun times, laughter, tears and now you're reuniting with Jaffa. You have left us all feeling empty lad. RIP Craig Breen."
Rally driver Hayden Paddon sent his wishes to Breen's family, writing:
"Can’t believe it! This just isn’t right - you were a legend of a human being and driver. The sport is poorer without you. RIP Craig and my wishes are with all your family at this devastating time"
Here is a collection of other tributes to the rally driver.