Hankook's iON Race Tires Prove Critical in Madrid E-Prix Strategy Showdown
Event summary
- Hankook supplied all teams with iON Race tires for the inaugural Madrid E-Prix at Circuito del Jarama on March 23, 2026.
- The race introduced PIT BOOST and revised ATTACK MODE, adding strategic complexity to Formula E's longest circuit (3.934 km).
- Jaguar TCS Racing secured a 1-2 finish with António Félix Da Costa winning ahead of teammate Mitch Evans.
- Hankook reported stable grip and controlled thermal performance from its tires across evolving track conditions.
The big picture
Hankook's successful tire performance in Madrid underscores the growing importance of specialized EV racing tires as Formula E continues to push technical boundaries. The race demonstrated how tire technology intersects with evolving race strategies, particularly energy management systems that are becoming critical differentiators in electric vehicle competitions. With Hankook as the exclusive supplier, this event highlights the company's strategic role in advancing both motorsport innovation and real-world EV tire development.
What we're watching
- Performance Validation
- How Hankook's tire performance data from Madrid will influence future Formula E collaborations.
- Strategic Adaptation
- Whether teams can sustain effective energy management strategies with PIT BOOST and revised ATTACK MODE in upcoming races.
- Market Differentiation
- The pace at which Hankook can leverage this real-world validation to strengthen its position in the EV tire market.
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