Bridgestone pursues F1 return as Pirelli remains supplier through at least 2028

Bridgestone is actively pursuing a return to Formula 1 as a tyre supplier, RacingNews365 reports. A delegation of senior experts from the Japanese manufacturer held background discussions about a possible comeback at the Singapore and United States Grands Prix. Sources familiar with the matter told the outlet they see Bridgestone as having a strong chance of becoming the next selected supplier.

RacingNews365 says the company is preparing a stronger technological, business and commercial package than its previous bid, which was already widely considered robust. Bridgestone restructured its motorsport division in 2025 and brought Hiroshi Imai back to lead it. Imai had previously worked for Bridgestone from 1990 to 2008 before joining McLaren; from 2009 to 2025, he served there in several roles, including as director of race engineering in his final years. He was part of the delegation in Singapore and Austin. Paddock sources told RacingNews365 that the company’s F1 ambitions were behind bringing him back.

Pirelli is contracted as Formula 1’s tyre supplier until at least the end of 2028. Its agreement was extended in 2023 to cover the 2025–27 seasons, and the FIA activated a one-year extension option in July 2026. The FIA awards the supply role through a tender, selects a winner and then proposes it to Formula 1 so commercial and business negotiations can begin.

Bridgestone last supplied F1 at the end of 2010. It fought a tyre war with Michelin from 1997 to 2006 before becoming the exclusive supplier from 2007 until its withdrawal after 2010; Pirelli took over in 2011. The next tender could draw several contenders: RacingNews365 says Pirelli may seek to continue, Hankook has long-standing interest, and Michelin has also been mentioned in rumours.