Hyundai driver Hayden Paddon counted on them to win last year’s Australian Rally Championship at his first attempt, and so too will the next generation.
MRF Tyres has extended its agreement with Australian’s national series, covering the 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030 seasons.
MRF first won the tender in 2017-2019 before reclaiming it in 2024. Harry Bates (Toyota) and Hayden Paddon (Hyundai) therefore used the rubber to claim their most recent titles, with Bates currently on track to add a fifth national title to his name this season.
The Australian stages are a big test of any tire, with roads often fast yet rough. High temperatures and constantly changing conditions require tires capable of delivering exceptional durability, consistent performance and precise handling throughout an event.
MRF’s extended deal cements its global presence, as it serves the control tire to the New Zealand and Latvian national championships, the biennial East African Safari Classic Rally as well as running a program in the European Rally Championship.
MRF Tyres representative, Vivek Ponnusamy, said: “This agreement is an important milestone for MRF Tyres and a testament to the trust placed in our products and technical capabilities.
“The Australian Rally Championship provides one of the toughest proving grounds in world rallying. The variety of surfaces, the rough conditions and the competitive level of the championship create an environment where tyre performance is constantly tested.
“We have worked closely with organizers, teams and competitors to continue developing our products and providing the highest level of support. We are proud to continue this journey together through 2030. The renewal reflects not only the quality and consistency of our tires, but also the dedication of everyone involved in building this partnership over many years.
“Australia remains a key market and an important part of our global rally program. The renewed agreement ensures that MRF Tyres will continue supporting competitors throughout the ARC’s next chapter while further advancing tire development in one of rallying’s most demanding competitive environments.”
ARC championship director, Adrian Coppin, said the series is “proud to be able to continue our relationship with MRF Tyres” because competitor feedback has been positive.
“It’s a solid tire that performs well across the wide range of conditions,” said Coppin. “MRF has also presented a fair and reasonable price for competitors, which was a key factor in the decision-making process, as having a tire package that delivers both performance and bang-for-buck is extremely important for the longevity of the competition and keeping stakeholders happy.
“On behalf of everyone in the EROAD Australian Rally Championship, I look forward to working with MRF Tyres for the next four years and building on an already successful partnership.”
