Hayden Paddon confirmed for first ever Team NZ entry to Race of Champions

New Zealand’s most successful rally driver, Hayden Paddon, has been confirmed as one of the stars of next year’s Race Of Champions (ROC) event, set to take place at Sydney’s Accor Stadium in Olympic Park from March 7-8, 2025. Following his landmark achievement as the first non-European to win the European Rally Championship, Paddon will represent New Zealand in the event’s ROC Nations Cup – the first time a team from New Zealand will participate in this global motorsport spectacle.

Paddon’s stellar career has only grown, recently securing back-to-back titles for Hyundai by clinching the 2024 ERC Title in Poland. Known for his dynamic driving and fan-friendly approach, he will bring Kiwi pride and tenacity to the ROC Nations Cup, where he’ll be joined by a yet-to-be-announced teammate to compete against world-class talent from across the globe.

“To be part of the Race Of Champions and especially to represent the first Team NZ in ROC is a dream come true,” Paddon said.

“I’ve watched the Race Of Champions every year since my hero Colin McRae won it, and now, having the chance to compete myself feels truly special. New Zealand has a long history of punching above its weight in motorsport, and I can’t wait to fly the Kiwi flag alongside my teammate on the world stage.”

Paddon’s journey to ROC has captured the attention of fans worldwide, and his inclusion in the Nations Cup promises a thrilling competition on a purpose-built, one-kilometer tarmac track at Sydney’s iconic stadium. As anticipation builds, Paddon is encouraging New Zealand fans to attend and witness the action live.

“With ROC coming to Australia, I hope to see plenty of Kiwi fans in the stands supporting us. March can’t come soon enough.”

Fredrik Johnsson, ROC President and Co-Founder, emphasized the historic significance of New Zealand’s entry. “It’s long overdue that New Zealand finally has a team in the ROC Nations Cup, and Hayden’s impressive performance in rallying makes him the perfect representative,” Johnsson stated. “The competition in Sydney will bring together motorsport’s top names, and Hayden’s quick, often sideways driving style is sure to make an impact with fans on both sides of the Tasman.”

Stay tuned as Team New Zealand prepares to make its mark at ROC Sydney and sets the stage for what promises to be a memorable showcase of talent, speed, and national pride.