F1: Bridgestone Looking To Return as Tire Supplier, Challenging Pirelli

Bridgestone tyres are lined up for air pressure check during preparation for the Formula One's Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang on April 1, 2010. (Photo : SAEED KHAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Japanese tire brand Bridgestone has reportedly applied for the tender process for Formula 1's tire supply contract for the 2025 to 2027 seasons, according to Motorsport.com.

Bridgestone was notably involved in the sport as a major tire supplier from 1997 until 2010. The brand left Formula 1 after the 2010 season to "address the impact of the continuing evolution of the business environment."

The Japanese tire brand was F1's sole tire supplier from 2007 until its departure after Michelin backed out in 2006. They also supplied tires in a limited capacity for the racing series for a brief period in the 1970s.

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Pirelli is the Sole Formula 1 Tire Supplier for 13 Seasons

Italian tire company Pirelli has been the official tire supplier of the sport since 2011, going unrivaled.

The Milan-based brand is now on its fourth tire contract, having been granted a one-year extension due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

South Korean tire brand Hankook last challenged Pirelli in the previous tire tender process in 2018 for the 2020 to 2023 seasons.

The current tire dimensions will be kept for the 2025 season, which is the last under the current technical regulations.

Meanwhile, there is an option to change the tire width from 2026 onwards while retaining the current 18-inch rim diameter, according to RacingNews365. The decision will be made in the middle of 2024.

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