Hyundai Motorsport has confirmed its participation in this week’s Croatia Rally.
The Alzenau-based team spent the weekend considering its plans for round four, and whether it would run cars for Thierry Neuville and Esapekka Lappi following Craig Breen’s fatal accident while testing an i20 N Rally1 last week.
Two cars will start the event, with both i20s running revised liveries to remember their much-loved team-mate.
In a statement issued on Monday, Hyundai said: “This decision to participate was reached after careful consideration, which included discussions with the family of Craig Breen, his co-driver James Fulton, and Hyundai Motorsport’s crews and team members.
“Breen’s family and James Fulton confirmed it was their wish that the team competes in Croatia in honor of Craig.
“The two Hyundai i20 N Rally1 Hybrid crews will be Thierry Neuville/Martijn Wydaeghe and Esapekka Lappi/Janne Ferm.”
Hyundai Motorsport team principal Cyril Abiteboul said: “After careful consideration involving all stakeholders, we have decided to participate in Croatia Rally.
“We will do this in memory of Craig, to honor 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 honor Craig’s legacy was not to withdraw our entry, so we participate mindful of our lost team-mate, friend and incredible competitor.”
The WRC has also announced that it will retire the number 42, Breen’s competition number, for the remainder of the 2023 season.
