Limerick Olympian's tribute to best friend and 'true love' rally driver Craig Breen

LIMERICK Olympian Sarah Lavin has shared a beautiful tribute on her Instagram page this Friday to World Rally Championship driver Craig Breen who lost his life on Thursday.

The sprint athlete said Craig was her "best friend and true love".

"My best friend, I will miss you forever Craig. Thank you for showing me true love.

"You were so much more than a driver to so many people. I will love you always, sweet dreams sweetheart," wrote Sarah, in an emotional post.

Craig, aged 33, was participating in a pre-test event ahead of Croatia Rally when the incident happened at approximately 11am Irish time on Thursday. His co-driver James Fulton was unharmed.

On Twitter, the World Rally Championship (WRC) said: "The WRC family is shocked and saddened to learn of Craig Breen's passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of Craig at this incredibly sad time."

Motorsport Ireland extended its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Craig Breen, who was fatally injured during an accident. They said he was Ireland’s top rally driver and a full time professional competing with the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team in the World Rally Championship.

Tributes paid to 'gentleman' Jim as popular Limerick businessman passes away

Speaking on the tragic news Motorsport Ireland President Aiden Harper said the Irish motorsport community is "numbed".

"Craig was a world class driver and a world class person. To Craig’s family, his parents Ray and Jackie, his sister Kellie, brother in law Darragh and nephew Bobbie, I wish to extend my deepest condolences and all our thoughts remain with Craig’s co-driver James Fulton. May they all find the strength and support they need at this unimaginably tragic time," he said.

Countless tributes to Craig have been paid including from rally legend Carlos Sainz and Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas.