Craig Breen, Ireland’s finest rally driver, died in an accident during a pre-event test in Croatia ahead of the latest round of the world championship, the Hyundai team announced on Thursday.

Hyundai Motorsport tweeted a statement in which 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”, the statement further read.

“Hyundai Motorsport will make no further comment at this time”, the statement continued.

Mr. Breen’s car skidded off the road and hit a pole while he was preparing for next week’s rally, his second of the season.

Mr. Breen, who began as a co-driver before becoming a driver in 2008, finished second in Rally Sweden in February when he joined the squad on a part-time basis after a year with M-Sport Ford.

Over the years, he frequently competed in the world championship, though rarely for a complete season, and despite never finishing first, he finished second in six rallies.

In a message of condolences, Motorsport Ireland President Aiden Harper said, “Craig was a world-class driver and a world-class person. This tragic news has numbed the Irish motorsport community”.

“The WRC family is shocked and saddened to learn of Craig Breen’s passing”, the World Rally Championship said in a statement.

“At this extremely sad time, our thoughts and condolences are with Craig’s family and friends”, the statement added.

New Zealand rally driver and Hyundai ambassador Hayden Paddon tweeted, “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”, through his official Twitter handle.

Also read: Fire In Texas: At Least 18,000 Cattle Killed In A Terrifying Explosion