Today, a funeral Mass will be held in Ferrybank to lay to rest rally driver Craig Breen. The Waterford native tragically died in a test-driving crash last Thursday while preparing for the World Rally Championship's Croatia Rally.
Breen, who began his rallying career in 2009 and moved into the WRC in 2016, was due to make his second WRC appearance of the season in Croatia after finishing an impressive second at the Rally Sweden in February.
He is survived by his parents Ray and Jackie and sister Kellie. After his remains were brought back from Croatia to Ireland, they were laid in repose at his family home in Slieverue outside Waterford city on Monday.
The removal will take place early this afternoon, with his remains being brought to the Church of the Sacred Heart in Ferrybank.
Traffic restrictions will be in place during the proceedings, with the R711 regional road due to be closed between Slieverue and Ferrybank between 12.15pm and 3pm.
Craig Breen's funeral takes place in Ferrybank today. https://t.co/EwW7hhKhvw
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) April 18, 2023
Waterford-bound traffic from the N24, the M9, and the N25 will be diverted to the city via the R448 Sallypark, with funeral traffic to be sent to Ferrybank via the R711.
Following the funeral Mass at 1pm, Breen will be buried in the adjoining cemetery.
On the racing front, Hyundai will have a reduced two-car entry and special livery in this week's Croatia Rally as a tribute to Irish driver.
Hyundai team boss Cyril Abiteboul also confirmed they will retire the number 42, Breen’s competition number, for the remainder of the 2023 season as a further tribute to his memory.
"After careful consideration involving all stakeholders, we have decided to participate in Croatia Rally. We will do this in memory of Craig, to honour him, his passion for rallying and his competitive spirit.
"We will enter two cars and withdraw the third entry as a mark of respect. Both cars will run with a special livery for Craig, his family, friends and fans.
"It is clear from speaking to everyone that the best way to honour Craig’s legacy was not to withdraw our entry, so we participate mindful of our lost team-mate, friend and incredible competitor.”
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