In the latest developments surrounding Formula 1’s official supply contract, the FIA has initiated the tender process for the period between 2025 and 2027, with the possibility of an extension until 2028.
Applicants were required to submit their proposals by May 15, and the FIA is currently in the process of evaluating the submissions. The approved bidders are expected to be announced on June 16.
Upon selection, the successful candidates will proceed to the next phase of the process, which involves discussions with F1’s commercial rights holder.
In the previous tyre tender process, covering 2020 to 2023, Pirelli faced competition from Hankook, a South Korean company. However, Pirelli received a one-year extension until the end of 2024 due to the COVID-induced delays in implementing new technical regulations.
As the deadline for applications for the 2025-2027 tender has now passed, it is believed that Pirelli is not the sole contender for the new tyre contract. Although the FIA has not confirmed the number or identities of the candidates, reports indicate that Bridgestone, a Japanese company, has thrown its hat in the ring.
Bridgestone has a history in Formula 1, having been involved from 1997 to 2010. Following Michelin’s departure from the championship in 2006, Bridgestone became the sole supplier from 2007 onwards. While Bridgestone has focused on other international series since leaving F1, its Firestone brand remains the exclusive supplier for IndyCar.
Eiichi Suzuki, the manager of motorsports planning at Bridgestone, recently mentioned that the company is evaluating its participation in various series, including Formula 1. However, Bridgestone has not confirmed whether it has formally applied for the tyre tender contract.
A spokesperson from Bridgestone stated, “We have a rich motorsports heritage spanning over 60 years, and we will continue to engage in sustainable global motorsports activities. However, we cannot comment on specific categories at this time.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Formula 1 tyre supply contract
Q: What is the tender process for Formula 1’s official tyre supply contract?
A: The tender process is the method used by the FIA to select the official tyre supplier for Formula 1. It involves interested parties submitting their proposals, which are then evaluated by the FIA. The approved bidders will move on to the next stage, which includes discussions with F1’s commercial rights holder. The process determines the official supplier for a specific period, such as from 2025 to 2027 in this case.
More about Formula 1 tyre supply contract
- FIA Official Website
- Formula 1 Official Website
- Pirelli Official Website
- Bridgestone Official Website
- FIA Tender Process Information
