Madrid, 17 apr. The Hyundai Motorsport team confirmed that it will compete with two cars in the Croatian rally, the fourth stage of the 2023 World Cup, in tribute to its British driver Craig Breen, who died in the tests prior to the event.
The team of the South Korean brand indicated that it has spoken with Breen’s family and with his co-driver James Fulton, among others, and that they have expressed their desire to have it competed in Breen’s honor.
Thierry Neuville along with Martijn Wydaeghe and Esapekka Lappi accompanied by Janne Ferm will be taking part.
“We will be participating in memory of Craig, to pay tribute to him, his passion for rallying and his competitive spirit. We will be participating with two cars and retiring the third as a sign of respect. Both will be running with a special livery in memory of Craig, his family , his friends and his fans,” said Cyril Abiteboul, team manager.
“The best way to honor Craig’s legacy is not to retire, but to participate in the memory of our late teammate, friend and incredible competitor,” he added.
Abiteboul acknowledged that this decision had been made “after careful consideration” and that it was clear from the response received from everyone who knew Breen “that participating was the best way to pay tribute to him.” “We consulted with her family and they gave us her approval,” she stressed.
Commenting on the special livery the cars will sport, he said: “We’re doing this to honor Craig and his incredible life and talent. He was proud to be Irish and passionately represented the rally community in his country. The decoration will include the colors of the Irish flag in his memory.” EFE
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