Junior WRC 2024: A “Spirit of Rallying” award in honor of Craig Breen

While the competition was full this year with 19 crews, the JWRC organizers decided to award a Craig Breen prize at the end of the season rewarding the driver who has shown himself to be the most fervent defender of the values ​​dear to the Irishman.

Published on 13/02/2024 à 15:04

Loïc ROCCI

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Junior WRC 2024: A “Spirit of Rallying” award in honor of Craig Breen

On the occasion of the Acropolis Rally the Craig Breen Spirit of Rallying Award will be presented to a driver from the JWRC 2024 (Photo: Nikos Katikis/DPPI)

Crowned Junior champion in 2011 against Egon Kaur at the end of a battle which continued until the final special of the last event at Wales, Craig Breen has left its mark on this category. The promoters of this one-make formula raced on identical Ford Fiesta Rally3s wanted to pay tribute to the man who tragically disappeared on April 13, 2023 at the age of 33 during an accident during the preparatory session for the Croatian round.

This prize will be awarded to the competitor who, during the season, best embodies the major characteristics of Craig Breen: a desire to overcome adversity, an unwavering determination to overcome all obstacles to complete each rally and positive behavior in interactions with rivals, stewards, volunteers, media, as well as engineers and mechanics.

After his time in JWRC, Breen always made himself available to candidates in this category. “ Craig has left an incredible mark on this championship first as a competitor, then as a mentor, explains Maciej Woda the director of M-Sport Poland and head of the JWRC. He constantly found time to offer his advice and support to our new generation of stars. He also holds a very special place in my memory, since he was the first winner after M-Sport Poland became the series manager. It is important that we recognize his unforgettable impact on the JWRC and we believe this award is the best way to honor his legacy. »

The Craig Breen Spirit of Rallying Award will be awarded at the end of the season. The winner will be chosen by an independent jury and will be announced at the end of the fifth and final round of the calendar scheduled in Greece (Acropolis September 5 to 8).

Loïc ROCCI

Journalist specializing in rallying past, present and future... and with a southern accent

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