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Hayden Paddon faces daunting challenge at Monte Carlo: will nerves derail his comeback?

Publisher by Publisher
January 22, 2026
in Motorsports, WRC
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Hayden Paddon faces daunting challenge at Monte Carlo: will nerves derail his comeback?

Hayden Paddon , John Kenndard are seen performing during the World Rally Championship Monte-Carlo in Gap, France on 21,January. 2025 // Jaanus Ree / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202601210760 // Usage for editorial use only //

Hayden Paddon Faces Daunting Challenge in Monte Carlo Rally: A Test of Grit and Adaptation

In the high-stakes world of rally racing, few events are as legendary—and as treacherous—as the Monte Carlo Rally. This year, all eyes are on Hayden Paddon as he grapples with the daunting task of mastering a brand new car under the most unpredictable conditions imaginable. With ice and snow threatening to wreak havoc on the already challenging course, Paddon’s journey is fraught with tension and anticipation.

Paddon, making a thrilling return to the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2026, has openly admitted to feeling the pressure. “We’ve got enough challenges as it is already!” he chuckled, acknowledging the formidable hurdles ahead. But as any seasoned driver knows, Monte Carlo is not for the faint of heart. “You can never come to Monte and expect it to be easy,” he warned, a statement that underscores the essence of this iconic rally.

During the shakedown, Paddon experienced a moment of panic, locking up his brakes and grazing a bridge on his first attempt. While some might view this as a rookie misstep, Paddon recognized it as an opportunity for critical adjustment. “It was a good time to have the moment,” he reflected. With forecasts predicting a deluge of snow and ice, he seized the chance to tweak the setup of his Hyundai i20, ensuring it would better handle the frigid conditions.

Comfort and familiarity are paramount for Paddon this weekend. He is not just learning to drive a car; he is getting to grips with a complex machine that demands precise control and instinctive handling. “Just time in the car is valuable at the moment,” he explained. “We’ve spent so little time in this car that we’re just trying to get comfortable—both driving it and mastering the systems within it.”

Despite his nerves, Paddon’s speed is not an issue. Having handled more powerful vehicles in the past, he feels a strange duality: “I feel like I’ve already adapted to the speed… but it’s the feeling of the grip that’s unique to Rally1.” It’s this unique sensation, a blend of aerodynamics and vehicle geometry, that presents the real challenge. “I have to adjust to that and get that better feeling,” he said, illustrating his commitment to mastering the intricacies of his new ride.

Yet, the stakes are clear: Paddon’s mission this weekend is not about speed or glory; it’s about strategic endurance. Hyundai’s sporting director, Andrew Wheatley, laid it out plainly: “His job this weekend is to support Thierry and Adrien, who are going to be flat to the mat.” Paddon is tasked with playing a crucial role in the team’s strategy—remaining steady and reliable while the lead drivers push the limits.

Wheatley added, “There’s no pressure on performance,” emphasizing that this weekend’s focus is on building a foundation for future success. “This is part of a slightly longer plan,” he reinforced, revealing the broader vision behind Paddon’s return.

As the rally begins, Paddon is ready to face the storm. “Thursday night’s a get-through night for us,” he stated, fully aware of the myriad challenges that lie ahead, including treacherous rain and potential ice on key stages. “So I don’t even really care about stage times tomorrow,” he admitted, setting a pragmatic tone for his approach.

In a sport defined by speed and risk, Paddon’s strategy is refreshingly cautious: prioritize safety, secure a finish, and let the race unfold naturally. If luck favors him, he could find himself in a competitive position without needing to chase speed aggressively.

As the Monte Carlo Rally kicks off, all eyes will be on Hayden Paddon—a driver on a mission, navigating the complexities of a new car and the mercurial whims of one of the sport’s most challenging terrains. Will he rise to the occasion, or will the unforgiving roads of Monte Carlo prove too daunting? The world is watching, and the thrill of the rally awaits.

Tags: hayden-paddonhyundai-bosskini-rally-racing-team-enmonte-carlo-rally
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