Kia has delivered 130 vehicles to the Australian Open 2026, marking the brand’s 25th year as a major partner with the tournament and representing the highest proportion of electric vehicles in the event’s history.
The fleet comprises 55 electric vehicles and 75 hybrids, with EVs accounting for more than 40% of the total vehicles provided for player transportation during the tournament. The lineup includes Kia’s EV5 and EV9 electric models, alongside hybrid versions of the Carnival and Sportage.
Kia held its annual fleet handover ceremony on January 14 at Melbourne Park, ahead of the finals of AO 1 Point Slam, a sudden-death tennis competition during Australian Open Opening Week.
“Marking our 25th year as partner with the Australian Open, Kia is proud to celebrate this significant milestone during this iconic global sporting event on our shores,” Kia Australia chief executive Damien Meredith said.
“2026 is an important year for the brand locally and globally and as we move to expand our electric vehicle portfolio, we’re proud to provide a wide selection of electrified vehicles that will power mobility in Melbourne throughout the tournament.”
Meredith said the fleet demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
“Reinforcing our position as sustainable mobility provider, our fleet of fully electrified vehicles signals our commitment to pushing boundaries, with our models setting a new benchmark for mobility at the tournament,” he said.
Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said the partnership represents more than longevity, highlighting the collaborative relationship between the organisations.
“Kia has been an integral partner of the Australian Open for 25 years, a milestone that represents much more than just longevity. This is a truly collaborative relationship built on shared values, and together we’ve continually pushed the boundaries of innovation, performance, and fan experience, both here in Melbourne and around the world,” Tiley said.
“From playing a vital role in our tournament transport operations, to creating new ways for fans to connect with the event globally, Kia has played a pivotal role in helping us grow the Australian Open into the world-class sporting and entertainment spectacle it is today.”
Beyond the player fleet, Kia has also supplied additional operational vehicles to support the tournament’s operations. The Australian Open 2026 runs for 15 days from January 18 to February 1 at Melbourne Park.
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