John
Kennard
New Zealand
·
WRC
At 66 years old, the New Zealander becomes the oldest co-driver in the Rally1 field, reuniting with Hayden Paddon for their 21st season together in what remains one of the sport's most enduring and successful partnerships.
Kennard’s WRC story began back in 1985 at the 1000 Lakes Rally in Finland, and he has been the voice in Paddon's ear through every major milestone of his career - from PWRC glory in 2011 to that historic outright win in Argentina in 2016.
After stepping back from the top flight in 2017, Kennard has remained sharper than ever, navigating Paddon to back-to-back European titles in 2023 and 2024, followed by a clinical APRC victory in 2025.
For 2026, Kennard’s legendary composure and technical precision are more valuable than ever as the pair steps into the high-speed world of Rally1 machinery, his ability to manage the pressure of the big stage will be the backbone of Paddon’s return. While many thought his top-level journey had reached its final chapter years ago, Kennard enters the new season ready to help Hyundai fight for global honors one more time.
