World Rally Championship officials have confirmed that a spectator has died following Hayden Paddon’s crash on the opening stage of the Monte Carlo Rally.
Paddon lost control of his Hyundai i20 on a patch of black ice approaching a left-hander on Thursday evening's stage from Entrevaux to Ubraye.
Paddon slid sideways and went into the roadside bank, with his Hyundai coming to a halt on its side, blocking the stage.
“The Automobile Club de Monaco regrets to advise further details following incident of the car #4 (Paddon/John Kennard) in SS1,” read a statement.
“The spectator was transported by helicopter from the stage to hospital in Nice. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, the spectator has sadly died
“An investigation has commenced into the incident and all involved parties will provide assistance to the authorities.
“Everyone associated with the event extends their deepest sympathies and condolences to the families, friends and individuals affected.”
Hyundai says it will co-operate with any subsequent investigation.
“Hyundai Motorsport is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of a spectator during the opening stage of Rallye Monte-Carlo on Thursday evening,” read a statement.
“The incident occurred at the same time as the #4 Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC of Hayden Paddon and John Kennard crashed into the mountainside, after the car hit a patch of black ice at the entry to a left-hand turn.
“The team and crew have pledged their full support to the event organisers and authorities to understand the full details.
“Hyundai Motorsport extends its condolences to the family, friends and individuals affected.”
Paddon later took to social media channels to express his shock.
“I am incredibly saddened by today's accident and my thoughts are with the family and friends of the person involved,” he posted.
“It's difficult to say much more at the moment, as we are in shock with what has happened. I'm sorry for the family, the fans and our sport!”
The remainder of SS1 was cancelled, with crews heading straight to SS2, which took place later in the evening.
Paddon’s Hyundai team-mate, Thierry Neuville, set the fastest time during SS2 to open a 7.8 second lead over M-Sport’s Sébastien Ogier.
Juho Hanninen placed a surprise third for Toyota, 7.2s further back, with Citroën’s Kris Meeke and the M-Sport pair of Ott Tänak and Elfyn Evans close behind.
Paddon's car, which sustained only minor damage in the incident, has been withdrawn from the remainder of the rally.
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