Hayden Paddon's new co-driver, Sebastian Marshall, will take the passengers' seat sooner than expected.
Hayden Paddon (R) with his new co-driver Seb Marshall of Great Britain. Photo: WRC.com
Marshall will co-drive for Paddon at the WRC's upcoming event in Portugal while regular navigator, John Kennard, nurses an ongoing hip injury.
In a statement, Hyundai said Kennard's existing hip condition was worsened by stages in Argentina last month, and that he has been advised to rest to avoid further damage.
Kennard will return for the following round in Sardinia and continue until Rally Finland in July.
"This is a tough one for John," Marshall told Autosport.
"I've been there with an injury and it's difficult to step out of the car, but he's such a competitive fella, he'll be back for Sardinia.
"From my point of view, it means my first WRC event with Hayden comes earlier than expected and that's really exciting for me.
"I've done Portugal a few times and it's an event I enjoy and it's a rewarding one for the co-driver."
