Bridgestone submits official bid to replace Pirelli as exclusive tire supplier to F1

Pirelli faces intense competition from Bridgestone to maintain its title of the exclusive tire supplier in F1

Bridgestone tires (Credits: ET Auto)

Since Bridgestone departed F1 in 2010, Pirelli has been the sole supplier of tires to teams on the grid. However, Pirelli will likely face significant resistance in its attempt to extend its contract as the exclusive tire supplier for Formula 1 beyond 2024. There are strong indications that Bridgestone, the previous supplier, is actively advocating for a return to the sport.

Recent speculation included mounting pressure from Bridgestone to replace Pirelli as the exclusive supplier from 2025. Pirelli has faced significant backlash in recent times, culminating in considering a prospective replacement. Multiple world title-winning drivers have expressed their admiration for Bridgestone. They commended the tires for their ability to handle the rigors of racing, allowing them to drive aggressively without overheating concerns.

According to a recent BBC Sport article, an official tender document has been submitted for the tire supplier role in F1, and it has garnered strong support from several drivers. However, Pirelli has faced criticism from drivers throughout its tenure, with concerns raised about the durability and characteristics of their tires. Currently, there is a dispute regarding F1’s plan to ban tire warmers from 2024, as drivers argue that the Pirelli tires without warmers will not be safe to use.

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The resolution of this issue is expected to come from a team vote in July after final testing. Pirelli has consistently maintained that it provides tires as per the specifications requested by F1, which called for increased tire degradation in the early 2010s to enhance the racing. According to the BBC report on Bridgestone’s plan, drivers who support the idea believe in Bridgestone, as well as the accomplishments of other tire suppliers in various motorsport categories.

This demonstrates that it is feasible to develop F1 tires that meet performance and degradation targets without encountering the issues that Pirelli has faced. These drivers argue that alternative tire suppliers could offer a more favorable solution based on their previous successes in delivering high-performance tires with the desired characteristics.

Bridgestone enjoyed success previously during their stint in F1

Ferrari won championships with Bridgestone (Credits: ET Auto)

Bridgestone achieved considerable success as a tire supplier in F1 from 2007 to 2010. The company’s tires were widely regarded as high-performing and reliable, contributing to the success of various teams and drivers.

Bridgestone-powered teams and drivers won multiple World Championships during this period. For instance, the partnership between Bridgestone and Scuderia Ferrari was particularly fruitful, with the team winning the Constructors’ Championship in 2007 and 2008. Ferrari’s driver, Kimi Räikkönen, clinched the Drivers’ Championship in 2007 using Bridgestone tires.

? | BREAKING: Bridgestone have submitted their bid to become F1's tyre supplier

BBC's sources have said that it is considered as a serious option to replace Pirelli.

Two multiple F1 champions have expressed support for Bridgestone as drivers will be able to push all race ? pic.twitter.com/0lu7MHKCx3
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) June 17, 2023

Furthermore, Bridgestone tires played a vital role in several memorable races and moments. For example, the thrilling duel between Felipe Massa of Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton of McLaren during the final lap of the 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix, which ultimately decided the Drivers’ Championship, showcased the performance and durability of Bridgestone tires.

Overall, Bridgestone’s success in Formula 1 can be attributed to its ability to produce tires that meet the demands of the sport, providing teams and drivers with the necessary grip, performance, and consistency to compete at the highest level.