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‘Big announcements coming’: Paddon’s anticipation builds for New Zealand’s maiden Race of Champions
Sport Nation • September 22nd, 2026 2:43 pm
Hayden Paddon | Photo: Photosport
Some of the world’s best motorsport drivers will go head-to-head in identical cars when the Race of Champions comes to Wellington’s Hnry Stadium on January 9 and 10, 2027.
The two-night event will bring together champions from across Formula One, rallying, Supercars, circuit racing, drifting and dirt racing for the first Race of Champions event to be held in New Zealand.
New Zealand rally star Hayden Paddon is among the names to compete alongside a growing list of international legends including F1 drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sebastian Vettel, and Supercars' Chaz Mostert, Brodie Kostecki and Will Brown.
Chaz Mostert | Photo: Photosport
“It’s a pretty unique event and a nice surprise that we’ve actually got it in New Zealand for the first time,” Paddon told Sport Nation’s Scotty & Izzy.
“Normally this is an event that's held up in Europe and it's pretty much run biannually and they get together the champions from all different forms of motorsport.
Paddon also hinted that more major drivers and profiles could be announced before the event, promising a spectacular showcase for New Zealand motorsport fans.
“I think there's some pretty big announcements coming, so I think there are going to be some massive drivers and profiles coming down to New Zealand.”
The cars will be identical with an even advantage, while competitors will rotate through several different vehicles during the event.
“Both the cars are obviously identical that you’re racing at the time,” Paddon said. “So no excuses, it’s not about the best equipment. It’s about the driver.
“It's basically best man wins.”
Why Kiwi drivers excel in motorsport | Sport Nation
The opening night will feature the Nations Cup, with drivers representing their countries in a team-based competition. Then the second night will see the competitors race individually for the Race of Champions title.
While the exact track layout and vehicles are yet to be confirmed, Paddon said previous editions had featured 600-horsepower rallycross cars, cross cars and high-performance road cars.
"The space is actually much bigger than what you think, it's not unusual to see motorsport events inside stadiums."
Listen to the full interview below:
