Pirelli will likely remain the sole tyre supplier in Formula One for a further three years, after its motorsport director Paul Hembery admitted agreements were in place for them to continue.
Whilst a new contract has yet to be signed by the governing body, Hembery says both Bernie Ecclestone and the “majority” of teams have said “yes” to Pirelli remaining.
“Things are progressing, even if some contracts need to be finalised,” Hembery said. “It’s one of those situations where the process of renewing is not a beautifully designed one.
“You’re in the hands of the Gods from some points of view because you don’t know if you’re doing the right thing or the wrong thing. We’re just trying to do what we did last time.”
The Italian supplier only returned to the sport in 2011 after signing a three-year exclusive deal. Within that contract were clauses for higher degrading tyres than those before, in an effort to liven up the sport.
Pirelli has certainly achieved those targets, but has come under pressure from the teams and some fans who believe the racing has become too artifical.
The criticism doesn’t seem to have dented their chances of continuing in F1.
“We’ve made an agreement with the rights holder Bernie Ecclestone, and hopefully the FIA will support us because from a technical point of view we’ve shown we can supply the sport and be consistent.
“With the teams, we just need agreement from them, and to be honest the vast majority have already said yes, so it wouldn’t appear to be an issue.”
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