KIA has recognised the “King of Clay”, Rafael Nadal with a one-of-a-kind Kia made of clay.
The clay concept of the Kia EV4 GT, combines automotive modelling clay with clay from the courts where Rafael Nadal won a record 63 men’s singles titles.
Kia presented the tribute to Nadal, who has been a Kia global brand ambassador for more than two decades, at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca.
“For more than twenty years, Kia has been by my side throughout my career, through all the highs and the challenges. Receiving this tribute, created from the material that has defined so much of my journey, is incredibly meaningful. It is a special reminder of everything we have shared, and I am honoured by this gesture,” Nadal said.
In line with the project, Kia is also releasing a series of videos on its global YouTube channel and the Kia Europe brand website. The films capture the creation and presentation of Kia’s clay tribute to Rafael Nadal, celebrating his legendary clay-court career and more than two decades of partnership with Kia.
“Rafael’s determination and resilience have inspired tennis players and fans around the world, and those values have been central to our partnership since 2004. This tribute celebrates Rafael’s remarkable achievements and the journey we have shared. Through tennis and our wider sporting partnerships, Kia aims to bring people together and inspire future generations,” said Soohang Chang, president and CEO of Kia Europe.
Nadal’s extraordinary record on clay earned him the title ‘King of Clay’. He won 63 titles on the surface, including a record 14 men’s singles titles on the iconic Paris clay at Roland-Garros. That surface became the creative starting point for Kia’s tribute.
Clay modelling remains integral to vehicle development, letting designers evolve a vehicle’s form and design before production. Even as automotive development becomes increasingly digital and technology-led, clay remains a tactile way to judge proportions, surfaces, finishes and tensions.
Kia’s relationship with Nadal began in 2004, when Kia Spain started supporting the emerging star. Following his first Grand Slam title in 2005, Nadal became Kia’s global brand ambassador in 2006.
Kia’s support for tennis extends beyond its partnership with Nadal. In 2026, the brand celebrated 25 years of association with the Australian Open.
