Craig Breen is focused on being fully fit for round eight of the FIA European Rally Championship later this month after he hurt his back in a heavy landing during Finland’s world championship qualifier yesterday.Breen, an ERC event-winner with the Peugeot Rally Academy squad, was in ninth position when the incident occurred and required medical attention at the finish of the rally’s 24th special stage.
He was released from hospital in Jyväskylä this morning and will return home to Ireland today to begin his recuperation with the aim of contesting Barum Czech Rally Zlín from 29-31 August.
Breen’s co-driver Scott Martin, who was unhurt in the incident, said doctors treating the Acropolis Rally winner were encouraged that he was in less pain this morning than he had been in yesterday. Martin also confirmed that his driver would wear a protective brace for the next few weeks while he convalesces.“He’s got be careful over the next few weeks and he’ll be seeking the best specialist advice possible during his recovery,” said Martin. “Fingers crossed he’ll be fit for Barum, which is the focus now as the ERC title is still the main goal.”