Rally, Petter Solberg | Petter Solberg (48) in shock after the death in the rally sport: – I have no words

Breen’s car manufacturer Hyundai confirms the death in a statement on social media.

The 33-year-old is in sixth place in the WC summary in the top rally class.

The accident that cost Breen his life happened during a test run before the World Cup round in Croatia. The Irish driver is said to have driven off the road while driving on asphalt.

Chart reader James Fulton is said to have emerged from the incident uninjured.

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Rally driver Mads Østberg from Våler knew Breen well. He was devastated when NTB contacted him.

– I just found out about this. Craig is a good friend, and someone I have known for many years. We have also been teammates, so this is very, very tragic, says Østberg to NTB.

– I also know his family well, and it is a fantastic family that lives and breathes for rallying. My thoughts go out to the family and everyone around Craig! He will be deeply missed, he adds.

On Thursday, Østberg posted a post on Instagram where he honors his former teammate:

Petter Solberg also knew Craig Breen well. The Spydeberg man tells VG that he was completely taken aback by the news.

– I am in shock after learning this three minutes ago. I have no words and am completely sick, says the world rally champion from 2003 to VG, and says that he is scheduled to travel to Croatia to test the car with his son Oliver on Friday.

Condolences

Hyundai writes in the statement that its deepest condolences are sent to Breen’s family and friends.

Hyundai states that the accident that cost Breen his life took place early Thursday afternoon.

“Hyundai will not be making any further comments at this time,” the statement said.

The World Rally Championship organizer released the following statement after Breen’s death became known:

“The WRC family is shocked and saddened to learn of Craig Breen’s passing. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Craig’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”

The president of the International Motor Sport Federation (FIA), Ben Sulayem, also expresses his grief:

“On behalf of the FIA, I express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Craig Breen following his passing during a private test accident in Croatia. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones and the rally community at this difficult time,” his statement read.

81 WC rally

The 33-year-old took part in 81 WC rallies, but won none overall. He got 30 victories in speed trials. During Rally Sweden earlier this year, he took a very strong second place.

He had also finished second in a WC round four times previously.

Irske Breen became a full-time rally driver as a professional in 2009.

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