Belgian champion Tsjoen out of Rally Isle of Man

Crash while doing reconnaissance

Eight times Belgian rally champion Pieter Tsjoen and co-driver Eddy Chevaillier will not start Rally Isle of Man, after a road traffic collision during reconnaissance for the event yesterday.

The crew, set to make their Isle of Man debut to fulfil a long-held ambition, were taken to hospital for check-ups.

As a result of minor injuries, they will not start the three-day rally that runs from Thursday.

The reconnaissance period allows competitors the opportunity to check the route and prepare pacenotes for the special stages within regulations set down by the organisers.

No members of the public were involved in the collision.