HAYDEN PADDON

From the Adelaide Hills to the World Stage

KingGee went behind the scenes at the Adelaide Hills Rally to capture what it really takes to win at the highest level.

From the outside, rally looks like speed and precision. But up close, it’s something else entirely a coordinated team effort built on preparation, pressure, and split-second execution. It’s the mechanics working against the clock between stages. The co-driver delivering every call with absolute accuracy. The crew managing logistics, strategy, and performance in constantly changing conditions.

And at the centre of it all: Hayden Paddon. Focused. Dialled in. Completely in the zone.

This was more than just another event, it was a defining chapter in Paddon’s 2025 season. Together with co-driver John Kennard, he went on to dominate the EROAD Australian Rally Championship. Behind the wheel of a Hyundai i20 Rally2, the pair delivered a commanding campaign, including four consecutive round wins, ultimately securing the overall title.

It wasn’t just a win, it was a statement.

Because success at this level isn’t built on race day alone. It’s built in the early mornings, in the service parks, in the unseen moments where teams organise, adapt, and execute under pressure.

KingGee was there through it all, embedded with the team, capturing the behind-the-scenes reality. From the workshop floor to the rally stages, KingGee gear was worn and tested in real conditions. Durable, functional, and built to perform when it matters most.

Because whether it’s on a rally stage or a worksite, performance starts with what you wear.

In 2026, Paddon’s journey comes full circle.

He makes a highly anticipated return to the FIA World Rally Championship, stepping back into the sport’s top tier for the first time since 2018. Rejoining the Hyundai Shell Mobis World Rally Team, Paddon shares duties in the third Hyundai i20 N Rally1 car alongside Dani Sordo and Esapekka Lappi, supporting full-time drivers Thierry Neuville and Adrien Fourmaux.

His role is clear: bring experience, consistency, and a team-first mindset to strengthen Hyundai’s push for the manufacturer championship.

It’s a different chapter for Paddon one shaped by experience.

His return began at Rallye Monte-Carlo, widely regarded as one of the toughest rallies in the world. Faced with unpredictable, icy conditions, Paddon showed composure and control, climbing as high as seventh during the event before finishing 11th overall.

A measured and confident start.

That momentum quickly built culminating in an outstanding result at Rally Croatia, where Paddon secured an impressive 3rd place podium finish. A performance that not only marks a major milestone in his return, but reinforces his ability to compete at the highest level.

With further partial-season appearances expected throughout 2026, including key events across the calendar, Paddon’s presence adds depth, reliability, and experience to the Hyundai lineup.

From championship-winning moments in the Adelaide Hills to competing and now standing on the podium on the world stage, Hayden Paddon’s story is built on resilience, evolution, and the strength of a team behind him.

The spotlight might be on the driver, but the result is always bigger than one person.

And through it all, KingGee is right there with him in the background, in the build-up, and in the moments that matter most.

KingGee Workwear. Built for the job.