Mexican rally driver Ricardo Cordero wrapped up his debut American racing campaign at the Overmountain Rally Tennessee, securing a fifth-place finish in the RC2 class after battling a late-race tire puncture, according to Prensa Ricardo Cordero.
Cordero Wraps American Debut at Overmountain Rally
Competing in the seventh and penultimate round of the American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship on September 18–19, Cordero navigated 16 high-speed stages through the Cherokee National Forest alongside his team, 399 Tactical GHR Motorsport, according to reporting by Pulso SLP. The terrain presented demanding surface changes, including loose gravel, compact clay, and dirt. A tire puncture during the event cost the team valuable time, ultimately dropping Cordero to fifth place overall in Tennessee, as reported by Prensa Ricardo Cordero.
Despite the setback, Cordero finished his partial 2026 ARA season fourth overall in the RC2 category standings, highlighted by a podium finish earlier in the year at the Southern Ohio Forest Rally, according to Prensa Ricardo Cordero. Reflecting on the Tennessee event, Cordero described it as one of the most difficult rallies he has run, citing the intense heat and physically demanding tight corners that offered a clear preview of the competition level expected in the 2027 ARA championship.
Transitioning to La Carrera Panamericana and 2027 ARA Plans
With his 2026 North American racing schedule concluded, Cordero is turning his focus back to Mexico to prepare for La Carrera Panamericana, where he aims to capture his eighth title in the historic endurance race, according to Prensa Ricardo Cordero. The decision to skip the final round of the ARA calendar was driven by the strict logistical demands and mechanical testing required to ready his Lancia for the upcoming Mexican competition, as noted by Pulso SLP.
Looking ahead, Cordero confirmed plans to contest the full 2027 ARA National Championship calendar, leveraging the experience and distinct driving strategies gained across his four starts during his debut U.S. season.