Pirelli will undoubtedly respond well to the call for tenders from the F1 tire manufacturers for 2025
The FIA has launched a call for tenders for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Unless there is a huge surprise, Pirelli is expected to continue with F1. In an interview with our colleagues at GPblog, Pirelli's CEO, Mario Isola, expressed his delight over this extension.
Between Pirelli and Formula 1, the love story will continue. Unless there is a catastrophe, the tire manufacturer is expected to extend its contract with the sport, following a tender from the FIA for 2025, as reported by GPblog.
A lasting relationship
As the sole official tire supplier since 2011, Pirelli has developed a strong partnership with F1, despite the controversies and criticism the brand has faced. This situation delights Pirelli’s CEO, Mario Isola: “We are satisfied with the current situation,” he rejoices. He emphasizes that the current success of F1 is partly due to the materials provided that meet the requirements: “F1 is in a very successful period, and I believe that part of this success is due to the fact that we have followed their indications and developed a tire at the right level of quality, degradation, and integrity,” declares Mario Isola. The Pirelli CEO is also proud of the relationship maintained between the paddock and the manufacturer: “We work very well with all the F1 teams and the FIA, as well as the drivers because it is important to listen to their opinion.”
F1: A Life-Sized Test
If Pirelli has been present in Formula 1 for now 12 years against all odds, it is because they use the discipline as a real-life test to develop and improve their tires: “We use Formula 1 a lot to transfer technologies. These cars are the fastest in the world, so you can test your product in the most challenging environment,” emphasizes Mario Isola. Pirelli has handled the transition to 18-inch tires in 2022 very well. With the perpetual changes in Formula 1, the brand has also had to evolve: “We have developed new materials, new processes, new quality controls. A lot is happening in Formula 1.” Thanks to this partnership, the head of Pirelli can boast of producing tires for the best championship in the world.
Note that currently no other manufacturer has responded to this call for tender. If Pirelli is the only one to respond, the question will not arise. However, it is important to note that previous renewals did not involve a call for tender. Therefore, it is a relatively uncommon opportunity for a potential return of Michelin, Bridgestone, or their competitors.
