Japanese tire manufacturer Toyo Tires will supply its Open Country series pickup truck and SUV tires to nine teams and 10 vehicles competing in the sixth round of the XCR Sprint Cup Series, Rally Hokkaido, which will be held on September 4-6, 2026.
Rally Hokkaido is a gravel rally organized under FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) and JAF (Japan Automotive Federation) rules.
Starting in Obihiro City, the rally travels through forest roads in mountainous areas including Rikubetsu and Otofuke, covering a total distance of roughly 630km, with speeds exceeding 100km/h on some sections.
This year’s line-up will include Flex Show Aikawa Racing with Toyo Tires, led by brand ambassador Masato Kawabata; Kei Rally Project with MMC Toyo Tires, featuring Kei Takeoka, who also works as a motor journalist; and TCP Magic with Toyo Tires, a joint team with Mazda. Open Country brand ambassador Tomonori Noto drives for Team JAOS.
Vehicles used at Rally Hokkaido will include the Mitsubishi Triton, Lexus GX 550h, Toyota Land Cruiser 250, Mazda CX-60 and Suzuki Jimny.
In related news, soft compounds offset heat at 2026 Tissot Grand Prix of The Netherlands
