Hyundai has withdrawn Hayden Paddon’s car from the Monte Carlo Rally following Thursday’s opening stage crash in which a spectator died.
Paddon’s i20 Coupe WRC rolled onto its side after failing to make an icy left-hand corner close to the end of the first stage of the 2017 World Rally Championship season.
The damage to the car was superficial and under normal circumstances it would have made it to the end of the stage and continued in the event.
The first stage was cancelled following the accident and Paddon’s car remained at the scene of the crash.
The team announced ahead of the start of Friday’s action that the #4 Hyundai would not restart under Rally2 regulations in the circumstances.
Team principal Michel Nandan said: “We are all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the spectator on Thursday evening.
“As a mark of respect, we have taken the decision to withdraw the #4 car of Hayden and [co-driver] John [Kennard] from this weekend’s rally.
“Our thoughts and sincerest condolences go out to everyone affected.”
Paddon said the accident happened when he lost control on a patch of ice.
“We got caught out by some black ice near the end of the first stage,” he explained.
“The car snapped sideways and from there we were just passengers.
“There wasn’t much damage to the car but I’m sorry for the team, who have all put in so much work to get here.
“I am incredibly saddened by today’s accident and my thoughts are with the family and friends of the person involved.”
The other Hyundais of Thierry Neuville and Dani Sordo remain in the event, with the Belgian leading the rally by 7.8 seconds over Sebastien Ogier after registering the fastest time on SS2.
