A fifth potential tyre supplier has joined the race to supply their rubber from 2011 after Bridgestone’s current contract expires.
South African manufacturer, Kumho, have allegedly registered their interest with the FIA today and although there are two firm favourites in Michelin and the current supplier Bridgestone, who recently made a huge u-turn on their intention to leave the sport, they have made an “interesting” bid to the sport’s governing body.
Kumho have no previous F1 experience, something that McLaren team boss, Martin Whitmarsh is highly critical of.
“You have to remember that F1 is a very challenging environment and we have to be careful with newcomers that we don’t take too many risks. If we can convince experienced operators to be in F1, that’s good.”
In an ideal world, Whitmarsh insists that the sport should do what it can to retain Bridgestone and has even signed a written plea to the Japanese company on behalf of FOTA.
“I think Bridgestone have done a great job, and if we can persuade them to remain in the sport that would be very strong.”
Bridgestone have said that they are “honoured” to be rated so highly amongst the teams and have promised to have a look at all possible options before confirming their retirement from the sport.
