Paddon: we have to stop a repeat
Hayden Paddon says his thoughts are with the family of the spectator who died when his car crashed into the mountainside at the Monte Carlo Rally.
The Kiwi driver has released a statement following the death of a 50-year-old Spaniard, who was airlifted to hospital in the nearby French city Nice after suffering a suspected heart attack.
‘‘Firstly, our thoughts are with the family and friends of the spectator involved. No matter the circumstances, this is never something we want to see,’’ Paddon said in a statement.
‘‘Secondly, [co-driver] John [Kennard] and I are humbled by all the messages of support at this time.
‘‘Obviously, my thoughts are with the family and that is my only concern at the moment. Not being able to return home to New Zealand does make it a little tougher but it is important we stay strong.’’
The crash on the opening stage of the rally happened when Paddon lost control on ice.
Paddon’s World Rally Championship car, a Hyundai i20, failed to take a left-hand corner and rolled onto its side after coming off the bank.
The spectator was believed to have been taking photos from the edge of the road.
It was not known if he died at the scene or in hospital afterwards.
‘‘I do want to take this chance to ask people not to speculate.
‘‘Irrespective of how and why the accident happened, fingerpointing will not change anything.
‘‘The most important is that we learn from this and I am committed to work with the FIA and rally organisers relentlessly to ensure this does not happen again.’’
Paddon, who withdrew from the race, pleaded to spectators at races to be ‘‘considerate’’ with where they stand and respect the instructions of the marshals.
‘‘We all want to enjoy a good show and go home to the family afterwards.
‘‘I also ask each and every rally fan at the events, if you see someone in a dangerous position to request they move for everyone’s best interest.
‘‘As a community, we can collectively work together to prevent this from happening again.’’