Pirelli admits F1 tire tender more complicated amidst Bridgestone threat

Pirelli remains adamant of securing the new F1 tender despite Bridgestone's interest in supplying the sport.

Pirelli admits F1 tire tender more complicated amidst Bridgestone threat

Tires have always been an integral part of Formula 1. Over the years, different manufacturers have supplied the sport with Pirelli leading the way since 2011. The Italian giant has stayed as the solo tire supplier of the sport and developed new compounds as needed by F1. However, Pirelli recently accepted that things are not as simple in its bid to win an extension after 2024.

Pirelli F1 boss Mario Isola opened up about the new challenges in the 2025 tender document. He said, “I can say that the tender document was much more complicated than in the past.” The 51-year-old shed light on the sport’s drive towards sustainability. The tiremaker for F1 will have to meet the requirements set by the pinnacle of motorsport.

YouTube video

Moreover, Isola mentioned that F1 has urged that the new tire suppliers must be able to meet the characteristics demanded by the sport. F1 has been vocal about having tires that allow drivers to push throughout the stint without the risk of thermal degradation. Subsequently, the tire supplier from 2025 must abide by such properties. Pirelli‘s Mario said, “We had to get down to business to collect all the papers for that.”

FS Video

Discover: Why is number 17 banned in F1?

Pirelli hopes to continue its F1 journey in 2025

The Ferrari SF23 with blanket-free tires, image via F1i.com
The Ferrari SF23 with blanket-free tires, image (via F1i.com)

Pirelli once supplied the sport in 2011 and has stayed as the only tire manufacturer since. However, Bridgestone is eager to topple Pirelli with F1’s new tender for tire supply in 2025. Yet, Isola is clear that the Italian manufacturer is keen on continuing in Formula 1. Pirelli has adapted to the sport’s needs as per the regulation changes in recent years. He said, “We want to be part of the sport.”

The Italian giant has faced criticism during its tenure in F1 from many drivers. George Russell is the latest example of a driver who is unhappy with Pirelli’s plan of introducing blanket-free tires. Although Pirelli has fought back against the British driver as it continues its push towards bringing more innovation at the pinnacle of motorsport.

Thus, Pirelli remains keen on winning the new F1 supply tender for 2025. The Italian tiremaker would face stiff competition from Bridgestone over the contract. It seems that Mario Isola and his organization are prepared to put up a fight to retain the sport Pirelli has been supplying for over a decade. Though it remains to be seen how things pan out for Pirelli and Bridgestone in the coming weeks.

In case you missed it: