It has been reported by Auto Motor und Sport (AMuS) that Italian tyre manufacturer Pirelli might face some competition in remaining as Formula 1’s sole tyre supplier, following reports that Japanese manufacturer Bridgestone are considering a return.
Pirelli replaced Bridgestone at the start of the 2011 season and have remained as the sport’s sole tyre supplier ever since, with the Italians having on the whole done an outstanding job.
With Pirelli’s deal set to end at the conclusion of the 2024 season, though, the FIA have started the process of accepting applications from 2025 until potentially 2028.
It’s not just F1 that the successful manufacturer will be supplying tyres to, though, with Formula 2 and Formula 3 also being included.
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Pirelli Motorsport director Mario Isola has revealed that the Italians are currently “happy” with how they’ve performed in the past 13 years but that agreeing to another deal is a “bigger commitment”.
“It’s never an easy decision,” Isola said in Melbourne, “because we invest a lot of resources and money in Formula 1.
“But we are happy with the results so far. 13 years is a long period and to continue for another three, four years is also a bigger commitment.”
Isola has shared, though, that Pirelli are wanting “to continue” supplying tyres to the pinnacle of motorsport and are likely to apply once again, no matter who their competitors are.
“The general feeling is that we want to apply and to continue,” added Isola. “It’s a process and we will wait for the end of the process.”
Whether Bridgestone do apply in a bid to compete with Pirelli remains to be seen but AMuS have reported that the Japanese are “very interested”.
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With a potential tyre battle about to commence, the chances are that Liberty Media will find themselves in a “better negotiating position” as a result.
“It is said that Bridgestone is very interested in a return to the pinnacle of motor racing,” AMuS reporter Andreas Haupt revealed.
“The hype surrounding Formula 1 has not passed the Japanese manufacturer by. At Liberty Media, they are rubbing their hands, as two applicants automatically puts the rights holders in a better negotiating position.”