Hayden Paddon and co‑driver John Kennard will continue their 2026 FIA World Rally Championship campaign with Hyundai Motorsport at the upcoming Rally Japan (May 28–31), marking the Kiwi pairing’s next appearance in the Hyundai i20 N Rally1 following their podium finish in Croatia.

Rally Japan, based across the Aichi and Gifu regions, is the seventh round of the 2026 WRC season and presents one of the most technically demanding tarmac challenges on the calendar. The event features 20 stages and more than 300 kilometres of competitive distance, with narrow, twisty mountain roads, constantly changing grip levels and minimal margin for error.

Unlike previous rounds earlier in the season, Paddon heads into Japan with a revised brief from Hyundai Motorsport, allowing the New Zealander greater freedom to push for stage times as he continues to build confidence in the Rally1 car.

Paddon said he is looking forward to the challenge of a new event and a more attacking approach. “Another new rally for us, but this time the approach shifts, it’s time to release the shackles and turn up the speed,” said Paddon. “Croatia was about sticking to a plan and bringing the car home. Japan gives us the opportunity to push a bit more and explore what we can do.”

Rally Japan will also be Paddon and Kennard’s first appearance at the event, adding another layer of complexity to an already demanding rally. The stages are known for their relentless sequence of corners, narrow profiles and exposure to changing weather conditions, with sudden rain capable of dramatically altering grip levels across the mountainous terrain.

Hyundai Motors New Zealand General Manager Leighton Agnew said the upcoming rally represents an important opportunity following the result in Croatia. “Hayden and John delivered a strong performance in Croatia, and Rally Japan presents a very different challenge,” said Agnew. “It’s a highly technical event where precision and commitment are critical, and we’re looking forward to seeing how they build on their progress so far this season.”

Paddon is one of three drivers rotating through Hyundai Motorsport’s third Rally1 entry in 2026, with Japan marking his third outing of the season as part of the team’s campaign. 

With the championship returning to asphalt on one of the most unforgiving surfaces of the season, Rally Japan offers a fresh test for both Paddon and Kennard as they look to build on their podium success in Croatia.