Ceredigion: Hayden Paddon wins Rally Ceredigion, Mathieu Franceschi 3rd

After the very long first stage (127 km), the last day seemed simple with its 57,16 km timed. Two special stages to be taken twice to the south and south-east of Aberystwyth awaited the competitors. The big worry was the weather since showers were forecast.

Author of a superb demonstration on Friday evening and Saturday with 9 best times out of 10 possible, Hayden Paddon had a lead exceeding one minute. Controlling the race perfectly, the driver Hyundai avoided the many traps caused in particular by the rain. He won his first victory in ERC since Fafe in 2023. With this result, he now has a 27-point lead in the championship and he will be able to simply manage events during the last meeting in Poland (October 11-13).

Continuing his discovery of Wales, Mathieu Franceschi started the day well. The road crash of Chris Ingram who was leading the contingent of locals (SS11) propelled him 2^e. The Frenchman, however, found himself in difficulty with the arrival of the rain. On a road surface with no grip, he lost a position (SS13) while there was only the Power Stage left to compete. The Varois was content with that, which allowed him to still have a slim chance of being crowned.

Author of a very beautiful last stage, Andrea Mabellini took the 2^e rank in the final section.

By taking 2nd place in the ERC Junior, Mille Johansson secured the title and his participation in the 2025 JWRC.

Rally Ceredigion final standings