Following his brilliant second place in Rally Sweden, Hyundai driver Craig Breen, is going back to his roots, by offering his support to the Irish Junior 1000 category.

As part of the Sligo Pallets Forest Rally Championship, Breen is keen to support his home nation’s future stars, and his commitment goes beyond a simple financial investment.

"I’m delighted to be getting involved in supporting what is a remarkable grassroots series, a unique opportunity we afford to these drivers, to compete and learn in the sport from an early age," said the 33-year-old, fresh from his second-place finish at the recent Rally Sweden.

"This sport has given me a remarkable amount, and now is the time for me to give back to the next generation of youngsters, aiming to make a mark in rallying. These drivers are the future, and I’m delighted to be able to help them on the initial steps of the journey."

Breen's sponsorship, includes a prize fund worth €1,250 in vouchers per event, ranging from performance-related awards, to draws that will take place across the year, with both rookie and experienced competitors equally open to claiming a prize.

The overall champion, will also benefit from a two-day ice-driving experience, at the world-renowned John Haugland Winter Rally School in Norway, while the Irishman has also committed to appearing at the championship’s official tuition day this year, providing one-on-one tuition to the competitors in their own cars.