Falken Tyre Europe is expanding its motorsport engagement and will partner with Max Kruse Racing in the new season. In addition to the two Falken Porsche 911 GT3 R vehicles, a Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR #10 will carry the iconic Falken Motorsports colours and will be driven by Benjamin Leuchter and Andreas Gülden.
Last year, Max Kruse Racing tasted success in the two races of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) where it used Falken's tyres. In addition to two pole positions, the team scored victories at each event in the SP3T class.
The team is owned by professional footballer Max Kruse and Volkswagen brand ambassador and racing driver Benjamin Leuchter. Benjamin elaborates on the partnership; "With Falken, we have a strong partner in our ranks, with which we were already able to celebrate success in a very short space of time. This is a very good basis upon which we will build. I'm really looking forward to working together and expect it to be an exciting 2021 season."
Max Kruse, who is currently under contract with FC Union Berlin, added: "We always strive for the best. That is why we are very happy to have such a strong partner as Falken on our side and are convinced that we will achieve further success together. We know that it is not an easy time and situation for everyone because of the pandemic, but we are of course very happy that Falken is supporting us. We thank it in advance for its trust and hope to be able to repay its faith with more success on track."
In 2021, the Max Kruse Racing cars will run on Falken tyres in championships where there isn't a control tyre arrangement. The highlight of this season will be the first participation in the ADAC 24-hour race at the Nürburgring for the team. Max Kruse Racing will announce the driver pairings later.
The team uses 270/660R18 on the front and 260/660R18 on the rear on the Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR.
About Sumitomo Rubber Australia
Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) is the fifth largest tyre manufacturer in the world. With 11 global tyre manufacturing facilities, SRI produces tyres for passenger cars, light trucks, trucks & buses, motorcycles and agricultural machinery. Sumitomo Rubber Australia (SRAU) is the local subsidiary and manages three brands – Falken, Sumitomo Tyres and Ohtsu. For more information visit www.falken.com.au.