#Greece #Hankook Tire #Dynapro R213 #WRC Rally #Loutraki

Hankook Tire Gears Up for WRC EKO Acropolis Rally

Hankook Tire & Technology, a prominent global tire manufacturer and the exclusive tire supplier for the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), is all set to demonstrate its cutting-edge technology at the upcoming EKO Acropolis Rally Greece 2026. Scheduled to take place from June 25 to 28 in Loutraki, Greece, this rally is famous for its rough, rugged mountain terrain and scorching temperatures. Known as the 'Rally of the Gods', it poses a true test of endurance for both drivers and their machines.

The event's new base location in Loutraki, a picturesque coastal city situated on the Gulf of Corinth, signifies a pivotal shift from the former central base in Lamia. The rally will unfold over approximately 323 kilometers across 17 Special Stages (SS), strategically centered around the Loutraki service park. As competitors navigate these challenging terrains, they will experience the unique difficulties that the harsh rocky surfaces and extreme heat present, with temperatures soaring above 35 degrees Celsius.

For this challenging event, Hankook will provide its all-terrain rally tire, the Dynapro R213, which has been meticulously engineered to face the formidable conditions. This tire, recognized for its exceptional durability and grip, is designed to deliver reliable performance on uneven gravel surfaces often littered with sharp rocks and deep ruts.

A distinctive feature of this year's event includes two compounds of the Dynapro R213: Hard and Soft. These compounds are crafted to enhance tire performance and durability, allowing teams to strategically manage tire usage in accordance with the evolving road conditions. The format of running the same stages twice leads to significant changes in road conditions, placing additional stress on both the vehicles and the tires. During the initial pass, competitors contend with loose, gravel-heavy surfaces, while the subsequent pass exposes them to sharp rocks and deep ruts, testing the limits of tire reliability.

By showcasing its innovative tire technology in extreme conditions, Hankook aims to demonstrate its excellence and commitment to high-performance products in motorsport. The Dynapro R213 is engineered to provide stable handling and steering response, ensuring drivers can maintain control even amidst the unpredictable challenges of the rally.

The last round of the WRC, the FORUM8 Rally Japan, saw Elfyn Evans from Toyota GAZOO Racing World Rally Team emerge victorious, further solidifying his lead in the Drivers' Championship standings. Strong performances by teammates Takamoto Katsuta and Oliver Solberg showcased Toyota’s competitive edge, making this season a thrilling spectacle for fans.

To continually refine its tire technology, Hankook leverages driving data collected from WRC and other global motorsport events to enhance its Research and Development efforts. Since the 2025 season, Hankook has proudly served as the exclusive tire supplier across all classes of the WRC, showcasing its technological prowess and commitment to quality.

The upcoming EKO Acropolis Rally Greece 2026 not only highlights the resilience of its competitors, but also offers Hankook an opportunity to exhibit its advanced tire technologies in one of the most beloved and traditional events of the rally calendar. As they prepare for the heat and rugged terrains, fans and teams alike await a display of remarkable performances and the relentless spirit of rally racing.