Hayden Paddon will make his long-awaited return to gravel in Hyundai's Rally1 machinery after being confirmed for Rally Paraguay later this month.
The New Zealander and co-driver John Kennard have been selected to contest the South American event, marking their fourth FIA World Rally Championship appearance with Hyundai Motorsport this season. After previous outings on asphalt, Paraguay will provide Paddon with his first opportunity to drive the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 on gravel since rejoining the championship.
The announcement represents another important milestone in Paddon's comeback campaign. The 39-year-old has impressed Hyundai with his performances during a limited 2026 schedule, including a podium finish at Rally Croatia, and has consistently expressed his desire to compete on loose-surface events.
"Hayden Paddon and John Kennard will return to the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 cockpit for their fourth WRC event of the year following appearances in Monte-Carlo, Croatia and Japan", a statement said.
"Rally Paraguay……here we come!", Paddon said.
"Beyond excited and incredibly grateful to be heading back to the WRC, this time on gravel, and back to a part of the world that holds so many special memories for us.
"We’re under no illusions about the size of the challenge ahead.
"Jumping back into Rally1 on gravel against the best in the world won’t be easy, but we’ll make the most of this opportunity and give it absolutely everything we’ve got.
"A huge thank you to Hyundai Motorsport for believing in us and giving us this chance.
"I never thought we’d be back on gravel in the main game, so this is one we’ll truly appreciate.
"Now……it’s time to get to work!"
Photo Credits: Hyundai
Post a Comment