Craig Breen dies after testing accident ahead of World Rally Championship event in Croatia

Rally driver Craig Breen has died at the age of 33 after a testing accident in Croatia ahead of next week’s World Rally Championship round in the country.

Breen collided with a pole in his Hyundai i20, with local police near Lobora confirming a fatal accident at 12:40 Croatian time (11:40 UK) on Thursday.

Co-driver James Fulton was not injured in the crash, Hyundai 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.”

The WRC added: “The WRC family is shocked and saddened to learn of Craig Breen’s passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of Craig at this incredibly sad time.”

Breen was set to compete in a part-time WRC programme with Hyundai this year after moving from M-Sport over the winter.

He has had eight podiums from 81 starts, including a second place in Rally Sweden in February.

The Irishman is a former WRC Academy and Junior champion.

Mercedes were one of a number of prominent members of the motorsport community to express their condolences.

“We join the motorsport community in mourning the loss of Craig Breen, and send our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, team-mates and fans across the world,” the team wrote on Twitter.