New Zealand driver Hayden Paddon secured a podium finish at the Croatia Rally, the fourth round of the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship, after a weekend of high attrition. Driving for Hyundai Motorsport, Paddon and co-driver John Kennard claimed third place, capitalizing on a grueling event that saw multiple top contenders retire.
The rally, held on the asphalt roads around Zagreb from April 10-13, 2026, proved exceptionally challenging. Of the nine Rally1 hybrid cars that started, only three were classified as finishers. The demanding conditions, including changeable weather and tricky road surfaces, led to several accidents and mechanical failures.
Paddon's consistent and measured drive paid off as others hit trouble. The victory was taken by Toyota Gazoo Racing's Kalle Rovanperä, with M-Sport Ford's Adrien Fourmaux finishing second. Paddon's result marks a significant points haul for both the driver and the Hyundai team in the championship standings.
The podium continues a strong start to the 2026 season for Paddon, who has now finished in the top five at multiple events. The next round of the championship is Rally Portugal, scheduled for late May 2026.
