Hayden Paddon answers doubters with “proper” WRC podium in Paraguay
Hayden Paddon says his run to second at Rally Paraguay "felt like a win” and provided an answer to those who “thought we were a bit of a joke of a signing”. The New Zealander returned to the WRC's top flight this season for the first time since 2018 after Hyundai signed the driver alongside Dani Sordo and Esapekka Lappi to share its third factory i20 N Rally1 car. Hyundai initially ... Keep…
Hayden Paddon's podium finish at Rally Paraguay showcased his skill and answered critics who doubted the New Zealand driver's abilities. The 2016 Rally Argentina champion, now with Hyundai World Rally Team, returned to the World Rally Championship (WRC) after a three-year absence. Initially partnered with co-driver John Kennard and driver Dani Sordo, Paddon earned an extra gravel event in Paraguay despite Hyundai's initial asphalt-only plan.
The driver, who typically prefers gravel over asphalt, capitalized on this opportunity, leading the rally on Friday before securing the second place. Paddon's podium was his second of the four-round programme, with the third position following Thierry Neuville's final stage crash in Croatia. The New Zealander expressed gratitude to Hyundai, his Kiwi supporters, and co-driver Kennard, acknowledging the tough journey but feeling optimistic about the future.
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