Bridgestone reportedly pushing for a Formula 1 tyre comeback
According to RacingNews365, as relayed by Crash.net, Bridgestone is keen to return as Formula 1 tyre supplier. Nothing is confirmed, and the earliest possible switch from Pirelli would be 2029.
This report has not been officially confirmed. We will update it if that changes.
The report
Bridgestone is reportedly pushing to return to Formula 1 as tyre supplier, according to RacingNews365, a report picked up by Crash.net on 26 October. Neither Bridgestone nor the FIA has confirmed it, so it should be read as an unconfirmed report.
According to RacingNews365, Bridgestone officials were seen at several recent grands prix, including the last two races in Singapore and the United States.
Why 2029 is the earliest date
Pirelli has been the exclusive supplier since 2011. Crash.net reports that in June 2026 the FIA exercised an option to extend that deal through the end of 2028. That means no other manufacturer could take over before 2029.
Background
The Japanese company last supplied the series in 2010. It competed against Michelin in a tyre war from 1997 to 2006, then was the sole supplier for four seasons from 2007. Michelin bid unsuccessfully for the tender starting in 2017.
Bridgestone is also set to become the official Formula E tyre supplier from the 2026/27 season, while Pirelli will supply MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3 and MotoE from 2027, according to Crash.net.
No tender has been announced, and the reports do not say when a decision could come.