The rally world is gearing up to pay a heartfelt tribute to Craig Breen, a star of the World Rally Championship (WRC), who tragically passed away in an accident during a test in Croatia last April. In his memory, the Junior WRC has announced the creation of the "Craig Breen Rally Spirit Award." This award seeks to recognize the JWRC driver who, throughout the season, demonstrates the qualities that made Breen such a beloved and respected figure in this sport: the ability to overcome adversity, relentless determination to tackle each challenge in every rally, and a positive and open attitude in interactions with colleagues, marshals, volunteers, media, engineers, and mechanics.
Craig Breen, whose rally career was on a constant rise after winning the JWRC title in 2011, was noted for his skill and perseverance in the sport. Following his JWRC victory, Breen continued to climb the ranks in the rally world, competing in the top category of the WRC, where he achieved nine podiums driving for teams like Citroen, Hyundai, and M-Sport-Ford.
The announcement of this new award comes just before the start of the new JWRC season, which will feature a record 19 cars at the starting line for the opening round in Sweden this weekend. Maciej Woda, the Junior WRC manager and managing director of M-Sport Poland, highlighted the profound impact Breen had on the championship, both as a competitor and mentor, always offering his time and advice to the new generations of drivers.
The winner of the "Craig Breen Rally Spirit Award" will be chosen by an independent panel of judges and announced at the end of the Junior WRC season at the Acropolis Rally, scheduled for September 5-8.
In an additional gesture of acknowledgment, the organizers of the Sweden Rally have decided to rename the Brattby stage, famously won by Breen last year, as #42 Brattby, using Breen's competition number. This change serves as yet another reminder of the lasting impact and footprint Craig Breen has left in the heart of the rally world.
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