Hankook Tire named title sponsor for WRC’s U.S. return in 2027

Hankook Tire & Technology has signed a title sponsorship agreement for Rally US, Round 11 of the 2027 FIA World Rally Championship, securing naming rights for the event and marking its first title sponsorship of a WRC round.

The event, officially named Hankook Rally US, will mark the championship’s return to the United States after 39 years, following the 1988 Olympus Rally in Washington State. Scheduled for Aug. 25-29, 2027, it will feature gravel stages across Tennessee and Kentucky, with headquarters in Knoxville and a ceremonial start in Nashville, home to Hankook’s U.S. headquarters.

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“The WRC’s historic return to the U.S. marks a milestone for Hankook as our first title sponsorship of a WRC round,” said Rob Williams, senior vice president of Hankook Tire North America headquarters. “This partnership will showcase our tire technology, elevate our premium brand presence, and strengthen ties with customers and partners across North America.”

The sponsorship will expand Hankook’s visibility across rally stages, the WRC Arena, fan zones and podium backdrops, supporting engagement with motorsport fans, customers and partners throughout North America.

“We’re proud to represent America’s return to the World Rally Championship, and especially proud to do it alongside Hankook,” said Matt Crews, president and CEO of Rally US.

Hankook’s Tennessee presence includes its Nashville headquarters and Clarksville plant. The company has served as the exclusive rally tire supplier for all WRC classes since the 2025 season and supports more than 70 motorsport competitions worldwide through tire supply agreements and team sponsorships. Data collected through these competitions informs its research and development of high-performance tire technology.