Kia to have expanded presence at Homestead-Miami Speedway

(February 28, 2011) IRVINE, Calif. (PRNewswire) — Just five weeks after capturing its first podium finish at Daytona, Kia Motors will have an expanded presence both on and off the track at Homestead-Miami Speedway as the title sponsor of the GRAND-AM Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge (CTSCC) race on March 5. 

In addition to the 2.5-hour race being named the "Kia 200," the company's first-ever turbocharged vehicle — the all-new 2011 Optima Turbo — will serve as the official pace car for both the Rolex Sports Car Series "Grand Prix of Miami" and CTSCC races on March 5.

"Partnering with Homestead-Miami Speedway to create on- and off-track activations is an important next step in the development of Kia's U.S. racing program as we continue to grow our presence in the world of auto racing," said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America. 

Kia Optima turbo
will be pace car


"Our first-ever podium finish at Daytona has created increased interest and expectations for Kia's motorsports efforts, and we are looking forward to an exciting weekend of racing and the opportunity to showcase the stylish and performance-oriented Optima Turbo to passionate followers of GRAND-AM racing."

"Six hours of action featuring the best road racing circuit in America presents a terrific vehicle for brands seeking to elevate to a higher profile," said Matthew Becherer, president, Homestead-Miami Speedway. "It's an honor for us to welcome Kia Motors as a partner at the Speedway and to serve as a platform to promote Kia's second-year motorsports program."

The Kia 200 will be broadcast on SPEED on Saturday, March 19 at 2 p.m. ET.  Race fans can follow Kia's motorsports program and receive live updates at www.facebook.com/kiaracing.