Statement from the Road Safety Authority on the death of Craig Breen

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of WRC rally driver Craig Breen in Croatia today.

As well as being a hugely successful international rally driver, Craig was also a road safety ambassador who had a profound influence on the predominantly young men and women who follow the sport – conveying the need for them to ‘Keep the Race in its Place’ i.e., not to copy what rally drivers do on open public roads.

It is one thing to be a successful and inspirational sports person, it is another thing to use that status to powerfully and positively influence your supporters to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Craig embodied this commitment of contributing to the greater good though his advocacy work with the RSA and Motorsport Ireland.

In recognition of this, Craig was presented with a ‘Special Recognition’ Award at the RSA’s annual road safety awards, by the late Gay Byrne, the then Chairperson of the RSA, in 2013.

Specifically, Craig recorded a series of online videos, which are still in use today, with the RSA and Motorsport Ireland, to demonstrate the safety differences between a rally car and an ordinary private car. Craig also voiced a series of radio adverts which aired on local radio in advance of rallying events advising fans on how to keep safe both during and after a rally.

The RSA wishes to extend its deepest sympathies to Craig’s family, friends, colleagues, and supporters.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam