Rally driver Craig Breen tragically dies in testing crash in Croatia

Waterford native Craig Breen - a popular figure in the Donegal International Rally - has lost his life in a tragic accident in Croatia.

The factory Hyundai driver went off the road during a team test on the asphalt roads. His co-driver James Fulton uninjured.

Breen, who was 33, competed in Donegal on three occasions and was in the county when Manus Kelly from Glenswilly was tragically killed in June 2019 on Special Stage 15, Fanad Head. Breen was a close friend and the front of his Hyundai i20 later bore the lettering ‘Mandy’ in memory of Kelly.

“I carried one of my best friend’s name on the front of the car all weekend," he said following the Neste Rally Finland in August 2019. "Mandy, we really miss you, boy. I’m like a broken record, but I get all emotional at these things."

Hyundai has confirmed the news of Breen's passing. They said: “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.

A statement from the Donegal Motor Club reads: "The Donegal Motor Club and the Rallying Community throughout Ireland wish to extend its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of World Rally Championship driver Craig Breen, who was fatally injured during an accident today while testing prior to Rally Croatia."