Bridgestone appears to be strongly interested in returning to Formula 1 as a tire supplier, but Scuderia Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur is not convinced of a possible departure by Pirelli. The company, which withdrew from the sport before the 2011 Formula 1 season to make way for Pirelli, was interested in a return in 2025. However, the current conditions do not make Bridgestone’s return to Formula 1 plausible and Fred Vasseur explained that the upcoming regulatory changes in 2026 would be a significant obstacle for tire suppliers.
“Technically, I think it would be a very demanding situation for a new supplier,” – the Ferrari boss explained in a recent interview for the Italian and International media – “We’re talking about one type of tire for 2025 and probably another for 2026. It means you’ll have to develop two different tires in the next two or three years. Add the junior series (Formula 2 and Formula 3): it’s very, very big. I don’t know if it’s too late, it’s not my job, but it’s a challenge.” – the French manager pointed out.
Former Ferrari engineer and current McLaren boss Andrea Stella shares Frederic Vasseur’s view. “In terms of timing, I would say that for us as a team, it’s not a problem,” he said. “But from the perspective of a tire manufacturer, it seems that time is really short, so we hope a decision will be made quickly.” – he concluded.
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