Pirelli continuing as GP2 and GP3 tyre supplier
Pirelli’s tyre supply contract for the GP2 and GP3 series has been renewed. The Italian firm has supplied the GP3 series since its inception in 2010 and took on GP2 supply the following year. Comments made by the organiser upon announcing this multi-year renewal for the two Formula One feeder categories – that his philosophy has always been to use the same tyre supplier as F1 – also indicates an official deal for the top-level championship may be imminent.
“I am very happy to have renewed our deal with Pirelli for the forthcoming seasons,” commented GP2 and GP3 Series CEO Bruno Michel. “Our relationship, which started when we launched GP3 in 2010, has always been strong and healthy. It was then natural to choose them for GP2 Series since they also had become F1 sole supplier and it has always been our philosophy to use the same tyre supplier as F1’s. For the past three seasons this partnership has provided some of the best races in our history. It is great working with Pirelli: they are very reactive and understanding of what needs to be provided in order to make our categories extremely competitive.
“As sole tyre supplier to both our series, Pirelli prepares young drivers for the next step where tyre management is key, but also fully supports them in the development of their career: the GP3 champion will again receive a cheque of 200,000 euros from Pirelli should he graduate to GP2 whilst the GP2 Champion will be offered a day of tyre testing behind the wheel of a Formula One car,” Michel continued.
Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery commented: “We’re delighted to continue supplying our tyres to both the GP2 and GP3 championships, which have proved to be an effective ladder of opportunity for those wishing to compete at the top levels of motorsport. It is the perfect training ground and we’ve already witnessed several drivers progress up the ranks to compete in Formula One, which just goes to show how important these championships are. GP2 and GP3 also allow drivers to learn how to deal with important issues such as tyre management on some of the world’s most challenging and famous race circuits. The competitive edge in both championships has been evident throughout the season with a record number of different race winners. There is no doubt that GP2 and GP3 will continue to form an integral step in any racing career, and we look forward to continuing to work with some of the world’s most promising drivers in the years to come. Part of our philosophy at Pirelli has always been to cultivate the champions of the future, which is why our participation in GP2 and GP3 is so important to us.”
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