A Johnson-Cook material model was implemented in a commercial finite element code to simulate a two-stand thermo- mechanical tandem hot rolling process of a round bar. The finite element model incorporates experimental data obtained from Gleeble tests performed over a range of strain rates and temperatures. The critical parameters are monitored in the cross-section during two pairs of consecutive passes with bar cross section changing from round to oval and oval to round through each roll pair. Strain and strain rate distribution at each pass are determined for round bar. Equivalent plastic strain and plastic strain in each direction are compared with each other. Strain histories of different region on cross section are studied. Strain rate distribution on contact region is investigated. Results show specific distribution and history for strain and strain rate during round bar hot rolling process.