Although there was some uncertainty about Pirelli continuing to be Tyre Supplier for F1 as there was a ‘bidding war’ with Bridgestone, the FIA has confirmed that the Italian tyremaker, which has been supplying tyres since 2011, with be the Sole Tyre Supplier to the Formula 1 World Championship.
Its renewed contract will run from 2025 to 2027, with an option to extend the agreement for a further year.
This announcement follows a detailed technical analysis of the submissions made during the tender process. The targets set out during the tender were agreed through consultation with the Commercial Rights Holders and the teams, and are designed to ensure a wide working range, minimise overheating, and have low degradation whilst also creating the possibility for variation in strategy.
Environmental sustainability formed a significant element of the technical requirements set out by the FIA, and Pirelli demonstrated best practice and innovation in consideration of the complete life cycle of the tyres.
For the first time, starting in 2024, all tyres used in F1 World Championship events will be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This means that the rubber used for the tyres come from a forest is being managed in a way that preserves biological diversity and benefits the lives of local people and workers, while ensuring it sustains economic viability.
FSC-certified forests are managed to strict environmental, social and economic standards. This innovation and commitment to setting standards in environmental sustainability is crucial to the future of the sport and all of its stakeholders.
“We’re delighted to extend or presence in Formula 1 and its other related championships. Pirelli was there when Formula 1 was born in 1950, and with this latest renewal, the firm will now be a protagonist throughout nearly two decades of the modern Formula 1 era,” said Marco Tronchetti Provera, Pirelli’s Executive Vice-President.
“Innovation and technology are locked into Pirelli’s DNA, and Formula 1 constitutes the ultimate open-air laboratory to not only try out and test new technical solutions, but also to accelerate fresh research, development, and production processes in making tyres. Our commitment to sustainability is equally strong, as proved by the FSC certification that will be introduced to our F1 tyres from next year. Being at the forefront of motorsport’s pinnacle until at least 2027 adds another important value dimension to our company,” he added.
Pirelli will also supply the Formula 2 and FIA Formula 3 Championships for the same period, ensuring that the young drivers are getting the most relevant experience possible to hone their skills and prepare for a future in the elite competition of Formula 1.