Global tyre giant Hankook has unveiled a raft of motorsport plans at Autosport International as it seeks to become a key player in the UK motorsport arena.
Building on a successful rallying programme last year Hankook Motorsports has announced plans to be part of the country's most successful race and rally programmes in 2006.
It has confirmed plans to run a formidable two car team in the British Rally Championship with former British champion Gwyndaf Evans and young gun Stuart Jones set to run under the Hankook Motorsports banner in a brace of Mitsubishi Lancers.
And on the racetrack Hankook is joining forces with high profile and hugely successful VW Racing Cup.
Hankook will also continue to sponsor the 205 Challenge and adds BMW to its portfolio with support of the RWD Challenge - both series designed for grass roots rallying.Hankook Motorsports manager Mike Patterson said the company, which has its UK headquarters in Daventry, was delighted to be able to support such a cross section of series catering for all levels and interests.
This mirrors the company's tyre supply operation run through Midlands-based Silverline Motorsport which supports everything from grass roots levels through to the top levels of motorsport in the UK.
"This is one of the most ambitious and varied motorsport programmes ever to have been launched in the UK and we are delighted that the Hankook name is set for a wider audience as we bid for success on the racetrack and rally stages,'' said Mike.
"Our presence at Autosport International last year and our involvement with the Hankook 205 Challenge and Wales Rally GB provided Hankook with the perfect foundations for a much greater presence for 2006 and we are delighted to be able to confirm such a high profile mix.''
On the rally front former British Rally Champion Gwyndaf Evans and fast-paced youngster Stuart Jones will contest all six rounds of the British Rally Championship, starting in May with the Carlisle-based Pirelli Rally and culminating with Wales Rally GB in December - also the final round of the World Rally Championship.
"To secure the service of such an impressive combination is tremendous,'' said Mike. "Gwyndaf has the experience, skill and speed to win while Stuart has all the potential to be a British Rally Champion.''
Support of the VW Racing Cup gives Hankook a massive audience as part of one of the most successful manufacturer-backed saloon series ever to run in the UK.
Entering its sixth year the VW Racing Cup in association with Hankook Tyres is a key support race for the prestigious British F3 and British GT Championship UK tour.
Kicking off at Oulton Park in April the series also takes in rounds at Snetterton, Brands Hatch, Croft and Thruxton.
"We feel it is vital for Hankook to be involved at all levels in the UK and our continued support of the 205 Challenge introduces drivers to our products at an early stage in their careers,'' said Mike.
The 205 Challenge is designed to be one of the most affordable ways to rally in the UK and the RWD Challenge runs on similar lines with fun the key to success.
