King of the Hammers, known as the toughest series of one-day off-road races in the world, is excited to announce OPTIMA Batteries as the title sponsor for 2025, and Ford Performance as the presenting sponsor for the event.
The brands will help host thousands of fans, spectators and competitors Jan. 23-Feb. 8 in Johnson Valley, California.
OPTIMA Batteries, a division of Clarios, continues to underline its dedication to off-road racing and recreation by supporting one of the largest off-road events in the U.S. Since 1972, OPTIMA Batteries has been producing state-of-the-art batteries for racers and drivers from around the world, the company stated in a press release announcing the partnership.
“After years of partnership with King of the Hammers, we’re thrilled to become the title sponsor of this world-class event,” said Cam Douglass, director of marketing at OPTIMA Batteries. “King of the Hammers has become the pinnacle of off-road racing and provides our team an adverse and intense testing ground for our products. What we do here trickles down to the technology we provide for daily drivers. We are happy to support an event like King of the Hammers alongside legacy brands like Ford Performance.”
Ford Performance has been a longstanding partner of King of the Hammers, with the Ford Bronco taking home the Ultra4 4600 crown for the past three years. The continued support from Ford Performance shows fans and spectators its commitment to enthusiast culture and the capabilities of its off-road lineup, the release stated.
“King of the Hammers is a celebration of grit, determination and innovation, and it’s an honor for Ford Performance to continue supporting this legendary event,” said Mark Rushbrook, global directo, Ford Performance Motorsports. “Johnson Valley pushes all of us—racers, engineers, and enthusiasts alike—to do better. The lessons we learn here directly inform the development of our vehicles, ensuring they’re ready for whatever adventure lies ahead.”
KOH is the birthplace of the global Ultra4 Racing series and a showcase for the wildest 4×4 vehicles on the planet. From the unlimited 4400 class, which combines high-speed desert racing and extreme rock crawling, to rapidly growing categories like UTVs, stock-modified vehicles and even electric vehicles, there’s a competition for everyone, the release noted.
Every year, over 80,000 fans converge on the rugged terrain of Johnson Valley, California, with millions more watching the action online. What began as 12 teams battling for bragging rights and a case of beer has grown into an iconic and celebrated event, featuring hundreds of teams.
“I’m delighted to expand our longstanding partnerships with OPTIMA Batteries and Ford,” said Mike Jams, CEO of HammerKing Productions. “Both have been cornerstone supporters for years and have become synonymous with KOH and its culture and community. We’re proud to represent them and look forward to continuing to build on our partnership.”
