Paddon to Share Third Car

The move prioritizes proven crews to maximize manufacturers' points in the final Rally1 season.

Overview

Hyundai's announcement confirms two full-time entries for Thierry Neuville with Martijn Wydaeghe and Adrien Fourmaux with Alexandre Coria.
The third i20 N Rally1 will be shared by Dani Sordo with Cándido Carrera, Esapekka Lappi with Enni Mälkönen, and Hayden Paddon with John Kennard after Ott Tänak opted for a sabbatical.
Hayden Paddon returns to the factory team for the first time since 2018 and will open his program at Rallye Monte‑Carlo in January.
Esapekka Lappi begins his part-time campaign at Rally Sweden in February following a Finnish title and his 2024 victory at the event.
Dani Sordo starts at Rally Islas Canarias in April after winning the 2025 Portuguese championship, with Hyundai stressing experience as central to its 2026 title bid.