Hayden Paddon pulls out of Rallye Monte Carlo after Spectator dies

  • Updated
  • 20/01/2017
Hayden Paddon
Hayden Paddon and co-driver John Kennard's car appeared to oversteer on a corner

Hayden Paddon has pulled out of the Monte Carlo World Rally after a spectator died when Paddon and co-driver John Kennard crashed during the first stage of the Monte Carlo World Rally Championship leg.

Hyundai made the announcement via Twitter saying “As a mark of respect for the spectator who sadly passed away tonight we have decided to withdraw car #4 from Rallye Monte-Carlo.”

Paddon and Kennard were attempting to make a narrow corner when the car appeared to oversteer and slide in the icy conditions. The car then hit a bank before flipping and landing on its windscreen.

An official statement released by Hyundai New Zealand confirmed the tragic passing.

"Hyundai Motorsport is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of a spectator during the opening state of Rally Monte Carlo on Thursday evening," the statement read.

"Hyundai Motorsport extends its condolences to the family, friends and individuals affected."

The crash led to the first stage of the leg to be cancelled. The second leg started 20 minutes after its scheduled time.

Newshub.