As Formula 1 eagerly anticipates the official confirmation of its tire supplier for the next cycle, Pirelli appears to be the leading candidate to outpace its competitor, Bridgestone, and secure the contract. Many insiders within the F1 paddock are already treating it as a done deal, assuming that as time goes by, the likelihood of a change diminishes.
However, there’s a twist in this tire saga – sources suggest that Pirelli might be planning a strategic exit from Formula 1 once the next term concludes. This prospect adds an intriguing layer of uncertainty, as it could leave the sport scrambling to find a new tire partner for 2029 and beyond.
The FIA initiated a tender process earlier this year, and both Pirelli and Bridgestone swiftly gained approval from the governing body after their technical proposals were thoroughly examined. The subsequent phase involved commercial negotiations with Stefano Domenicali and the F1 organization, and these talks have now stretched out over several months. Essentially, the two tire giants have engaged in a high-stakes bidding war.
Early on, rumors circulated that Bridgestone’s financial offer was so lucrative that F1 couldn’t resist. Domenicali, in his role of maximizing revenue for the teams and Liberty Media, had every reason to push for the best deal possible. It’s not just about the headline fee; details like the number of races with title sponsorship, track signage, and even guest passes for the tire supplier all entered into the negotiations.
To complicate matters further, the inclusion of F2 and F3 in the deal, along with a newfound emphasis on sustainability, added complexity that wasn’t present in previous tenders.
The plot thickens with strong suggestions that if Pirelli wins this tender, it could mark their final stint as F1’s tire supplier. After 18 years from 2011 to 2028, Pirelli might feel that it has achieved all it can in terms of brand exposure in Formula 1.
Now, if Pirelli does win this round and Bridgestone decides to re-enter the fray in four years, facing no competition, the dynamics of the commercial negotiations would change dramatically. F1 wouldn’t have the same leverage it currently enjoys.
On the flip side, the news of Pirelli’s impending exit could lure other tire manufacturers, such as Michelin or Hankook, to join the contest, potentially driving up the price.
For Domenicali, the worst-case scenario is no bidders at all for the 2029 tender. The fear of such a scenario might push F1 to consider Bridgestone sooner rather than later.
One possible compromise could be giving Pirelli the upcoming deal and granting Bridgestone the nod for 2029 and beyond, akin to how the IOC selects the next two Olympic host cities or FIFA chooses World Cup hosts in advance. While convenient, this isn’t how the FIA’s tender process operates.
The commercial aspect isn’t the sole concern for Domenicali; he must also consider the on-track implications of changing tire suppliers. Recent debates in the paddock have revealed differing opinions on the matter. Some advocate for a change, citing nostalgia for Bridgestone’s successful era, especially during the Michael Schumacher years. Others prefer sticking with Pirelli, despite its imperfections, simply because it’s familiar.
There’s also the technical challenge involved. If Bridgestone were to win, it would need to create tires for the current cars in 2025 while simultaneously designing a completely new set for the 2026 technical regulations. This task is further complicated by the substantial downforce generated by modern F1 cars.
Moreover, Bridgestone would need to undertake extensive testing, which raises questions about which teams would conduct this work and how it would be organized.
In the end, the teams are keen on securing their share of the additional revenue that will come from the tire deal, regardless of who wins. It’s a multifaceted puzzle with financial, technical, and competitive elements, making the decision more complex than meets the eye.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Formula 1 tire supplier
What is the current status of F1’s tire supplier decision?
As of now, there hasn’t been official confirmation, but Pirelli is seen as the favorite to secure the contract.
Why is there uncertainty surrounding Pirelli’s potential exit from F1?
Sources suggest that Pirelli might strategically withdraw from F1 after the next term ends, raising questions about who will supply tires in 2029 and beyond.
How did the tender process for the tire supplier unfold?
The FIA initiated a tender process, approving both Pirelli and Bridgestone after assessing their technical proposals. Subsequently, commercial negotiations commenced.
Why did the negotiations take so long?
The negotiations extended because Pirelli and Bridgestone engaged in a bidding war, with various financial and sponsorship aspects to consider.
What factors complicate the tire supplier decision?
The inclusion of F2, F3, and sustainability elements in the deal, along with the suggestion that this might be Pirelli’s last term, adds complexity to the decision.
How could Pirelli’s potential exit affect future tenders?
If Pirelli wins this round and Bridgestone re-enters in the future, commercial dynamics may change. Conversely, other tire manufacturers might be enticed to join the competition.
Is there a compromise solution in the works?
While it’s convenient to consider giving Pirelli the upcoming deal and Bridgestone the following one, this isn’t how the FIA’s tender process operates.
What are the considerations regarding changing tire suppliers?
Aside from the commercial aspect, there are contrasting views within F1 on whether to stick with Pirelli or introduce a new supplier, considering technical challenges and nostalgia for Bridgestone.
What technical challenges does a new supplier face?
If Bridgestone wins, it must create tires for the current cars in 2025 while also designing a new set for the 2026 technical regulations, complicated by the high downforce of modern F1 cars.
How would testing be managed if a new supplier comes in?
The allocation of testing responsibilities and organization for a new supplier remains a matter of debate among F1 teams.
What’s the financial incentive for F1 teams in this decision?
Regardless of the tire supplier, teams are interested in securing their share of the additional revenue generated by the tire deal.
More about Formula 1 tire supplier
- Formula 1 Official Website
- Pirelli Official Website
- Bridgestone Official Website
- FIA – Federation Internationale de l’Automobile
- Liberty Media – Formula 1 Owners
