While Bridgestone has missed out on the next bidding period, it feels vindicated in its plan to return to Formula 1
Until now, Bridgestone has kept a low profile regarding its bid to supply Formula 1 for the period 2025 to 2027. After it was confirmed that the current tyre supplier Pirelli had been awarded the contract and will continue to equip the premier class, a statement now followed.
In it, Bridgestone emphasises that it is considering a return to Formula 1 as part of a strengthening of its motorsport activities. The Japanese tyre manufacturer last competed in the premier class from 1997 to 2010.
“Bridgestone celebrates 60 years of motorsport activities in 2023 and continues to support sustainable global premium motorsport,” it said.
“Formula 1 is the most prestigious global motorsport platform in the world and Bridgestone has been exploring Formula 1 as one of the various options to support its sustainable global premium motorsport strategy.”
As a result, he said, the company has been in “sincere and continuous” communication with the FIA and Formula One Group about the next tyre tender for Formula One. Some advanced technologies the company has developed for its road vehicle products are perfect for Grand Prix racing, he said.
Bridgestone focuses on innovation and sustainability
The most likely area where Bridgestone sees potential is in the application of its innovative lightweight tyre technology Enliten in Formula One.
The tyre construction process, which makes extensive use of recycled materials, has helped produce road tyres that are around 20 per cent lighter than their previous counterparts.
This helps to reduce rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy and also vehicle handling, as the mass of the wheels is lower. The technology is also much more sustainable, as 63 per cent of the components are recycled and the products are easier to transport.
This was appreciated by Formula One and the FIA, even though Bridgestone was not successful with its bid, points out board member Shuichi Ishibashi.
Feedback from FIA and Formula 1 has been quite positive
“Although Bridgestone will not be able to support Formula 1 this time. But the feedback from the FIA and FOG [Formula One Group] has been positive and has underlined the value of Bridgestone’s advanced, innovative technology, including its sustainability initiatives,” said Ishibashi.
“Bridgestone will continue to use motorsport as a mobile laboratory and testing ground to passionately advance its technology and innovation, and strengthen its pursuit of sustainable global premium motorsport activities.”
Pirelli’s current Formula One contract runs until 2027, with an option to extend to 2028, after which there have been suggestions the Italian brand will withdraw from Formula One as it feels it has achieved its marketing and technology ambitions since its return in 2011.
A Pirelli exit in 2028 or 2029 would open the door for Bridgestone to reapply to return after an absence of almost two decades.
