Could a Korean Manufacturer Take on Formula One Tyre Supplier Role?

News reports emanating from Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport suggest that two of South Korea’s tyre makers – we’re looking at you, Hankook, Kumho and Nexen – could be in line to take the reigns from Bridgestone as the tyre supplier for Formula One, following the Japanese giant’s exit at the end of the 2010 season.

It is reported that Bridgestone is eager to shift the estimated 100 million euro yearly cost of providing the rubber to the sport in future years and it appears to make sense that the rising profiles of the three aforementioned tyre-makers would put them in the running to take over. Kumho in particular has a good deal of experience in Formula Three, supplying the Masters series whose competitors have often graduated to Formula One. Hankook meanwhile will be pleased that its rising worldwide status has translated into such recognition by followers of “the world’s most famous car chase”. These rumours remain unconfirmed and it is understood that F1 bosses are considering limiting the number of tyres available to teams in a bid to keep Bridgestone onboard. Or perhaps (as a recent poll on tyrepress.com suggested) it is time for the sport to return to competing tyre manufacturers.