As part of its bold new initiative, “Citroën 2.0 – Shift Into the New,” Citroën India is revving up its engagement with thrill-seeking audiences by announcing its partnership with JK Tyre India’s biggest motorsport promoter, for the 28th edition of the JK Tyre National Racing Championship 2025 (JKNRC). Through this collaboration, Citroën becomes the Official Car Partner, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, performance, and driving excitement. Citroën vehicles will play a prominent role in this season of JKNRC—serving as safety cars, participating in dynamic showcases, and featuring in choreographed stunt and drift performances. Beyond the racetrack, Citroën will leverage this platform to create engaging, high-energy experiences for motorsport enthusiasts. Its vehicles will captivate audiences with thrilling displays that highlight the brand’s agility, precision handling, and distinctive French flair. This collaboration marks a significant step in Citroën’s transformation, positioning the brand at the heart of high-octane experiences.
Citroën’s journey in motorsport spans over nine decades, beginning with the legendary “Rosalie” C6F in 1931 and evolving through a lineage of rally icons like the Traction Avant, ZX Rallye Raid, Xsara WRC, C4 WRC, and DS3 WRC. From the rugged terrains of the Paris-Dakar Rally to the precision-demanding circuits of the World Rally Championship (WRC), Citroën has consistently used motorsport as a proving ground for its engineering prowess. The brand’s dominance in WRC, particularly under the leadership of Guy Fréquelin and with drivers like Sébastien Loeb, resulted in nine Drivers’ Championships and eight Manufacturers’ titles, showcasing not just speed but reliability and innovation
Motorsport has always been more than spectacle for Citroën—it’s a laboratory, a crucible for technological advancement. The extreme conditions of racing and rallying serve as the ultimate testing ground for automotive innovation. Technologies like advanced suspension systems, disc brakes, and engine tuning—many of which were pioneered or perfected in competition—have seamlessly transitioned into Citroën’s Road cars, benefiting everyday drivers.
This rich legacy now finds expression in India through Citroën’s partnership with JK Tyre Motorsport, bringing the brand’s global motorsport DNA into the country’s vibrant racing ecosystem. Through this collaboration, both brands aim to elevate motorsport engagement in India—fostering enthusiasm among audiences and nurturing the growth of emerging talent.
Commenting on the collaboration, Shailesh Hazela, MD and CEO, Stellantis India, said, “Citroën’s DNA is deeply rooted in motorsport, where our relentless pursuit of innovation, performance, and endurance has earned us a place among rallying’s all-time greats. From dominating the World Rally Championship to conquering the most demanding terrains, our legacy is built on pushing boundaries. Motorsport is where our vehicles are pushed to their limits—and where our engineering proves its mettle. Today, we are proud to salute that heritage in India by partnering with JK Tyre Motorsport — a name equally synonymous with excellence and competitive spirit.”
Sanjay Sharma, Head- Corporate Communication & Motorsport, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd, said: “We are delighted to welcome Citroën as the Official Car Partner for the JK Tyre National Racing Championship 2025. For over three decades, we have been committed to promoting motorsport and nurturing young racing talents while bringing global standards to the country’s racing eco-system. Citroën, with its proven global rallying pedigree and relentless pursuit of engineering excellence, is the perfect partner to take this vision forward. Together, we look forward to delivering high-octane experiences that will thrill fans and inspire the next generation of racers.
The 2025 JK Tyre Racing Championship began on 8th–10th August at the Kari Motor Speedway in Coimbatore and, after three rounds, will culminate with the grand finale on 14th–16th November 2025 at the same venue.
