Paddon Claims Sensational Runner-Up Finish at Rally del Paraguay

 31^st August 2026 – Hayden Paddon and co-driver John Kennard have delivered their strongest FIA World Rally Championship result in more than eight years, securing an outstanding second-place finish at Rally del Paraguay aboard the Hyundai i20 N Rally1.

In what was their first gravel event in Rally1 machinery since returning to the WRC with Hyundai Motorsport this season, the New Zealand pairing exceeded expectations throughout the four-day event, running at the front from the opening stages and ultimately standing on the podium against some of the world's leading rally crews.

The result marks a remarkable achievement for Paddon and Kennard, who entered the event with limited gravel mileage in the current-generation Rally1 car and no previous experience of the Paraguayan stages.

After briefly leading the rally during Friday's opening leg and overcoming challenging conditions across the weekend, the Kiwi duo backed up their pace with a measured and mature drive to secure second place overall.

Paddon said the result was a rewarding outcome for the entire team and justified the faith shown by Hyundai Motorsport.

“This one feels like a proper podium,” said Paddon. “A lot of people had written us off, but a lot of people believed in me and we believed in ourselves."

“This goes to show you never ever give up. Dream, dare to believe in your dream, and I can’t believe we’re back here in this full circle."

"The biggest satisfaction is that we were able to repay the faith Hyundai Motorsport placed in us. It's been a special weekend and one we'll remember for a long time."

The result continues an impressive return to top-level WRC competition for Paddon and Kennard, following a podium finish at Croatia Rally earlier in the season.

Hyundai New Zealand General Manager Leighton Agnew praised the performance, describing it as one of the standout achievements of Paddon's recent career.

"We're incredibly proud of Hayden and John. To step back into gravel competition at Rally1 level and immediately finish second against the best rally drivers in the world is a phenomenal achievement."

"Hayden has always demonstrated world-class speed on gravel, and this weekend he reminded everyone exactly what he's capable of. It's a fantastic result for the team, for New Zealand motorsport and for Hyundai."

Throughout the rally, Paddon demonstrated both raw pace and caution when required, claiming stage victories, leading the event at various points and remaining firmly in podium contention despite the highly demanding conditions that caught out many competitors.

Standing on the WRC podium once again, Paddon and Kennard have reminded the rallying world that they are perfectly at home competing at the top level.

For Hyundai Motorsport, Hyundai New Zealand and rally fans back home, Rally del Paraguay was a weekend to celebrate, and a powerful statement that the Kiwi pairing remains a force to be reckoned with in world rallying.