Hankook Tyres has been named as the new sole supplier of tyres for the TCR Europe series, taking over from Yokohama after three years in the regional championship.
The South Korean brand was recently replaced by Michelin as the tyre supplier in the DTM, where it had supplied the exclusive rubber since 2011.
Now Hankook will continue its involvement in touring car racing by signing an agreement to become the exclusive tyre supplier for TCR Europe, TCR Eastern Europe and the newly-launched TCR Spain.
The brand had already developed a tyre for TCR competition, thanks to its contract as the sole supplier for the 24H Series, the Coppa Italia Turismo and the Baltic Touring Car Championship.
It’s move to supply three more European series will provide significantly more experience for the company in the area of sprint touring car racing.
“The TCR class is known for touring car racing of the highest standard,” said Hankook Motorsport Director Europe, Manfred Sandbichler.
“It features a wide range of brands and is established around the world. With this in mind, expanding Hankook’s involvement in TCR series is exactly the right decision.
“Our Ventus Race tyre has proven itself in this class for years and we are looking forward to some thrilling motorsport at renowned, international racetracks.”
TCR Europe promoter Paulo Ferreira says that the new deal will further enhance the competition in the strong European series.
“We are very pleased that an important brand like Hankook has chosen TCR Europe as one of the premiere series for showcasing its racing tyres,” said Ferreira.
“The Hankook products have already proved excellent in ‘shoeing’ TCR cars, showing both reliability and performance.
“This technical partnership will contribute to further enhance the level of competition in TCR Europe.”