Pirelli signs 1st race tire supply deal in Japan

SUZUKA, Japan — Pirelli & C. S.p.A. is expanding its already extensive endurance racing footprint with its first motorsports engagement in Japan, an agreement to supply the Super Taikyu series featuring GT3-sanctioned sports cars.

Super Taikyu features a multi-class structure to accommodate a variety of car models, Pirelli said, including GT3-spec cars in the top category, ST-X, which is similar to the Blancpain GT Series in Europe that Pirelli also supplies.

The 2018 season comprises seven races, ranging in length from three to 24 hours. One race — a 10-hour enduro at Suzuka Raceway in August — also is part of the Intercontinental GT Challenge, which Pirelli supplies.

The season starts March 31-April 1 at Suzuka Raceway. Thus far there are 57 teams entered in the 2018 season, Pirelli said.

Financial terms of the supply deal were not disclosed.

Pirelli will supply P Zero slick tires in a range of different sizes (15-, 17- and 18-inch rim diameters) as well as wet-weather tires in case of rain.

"Super Taikyu is an exciting new project for Pirelli as we continue to increase our presence in Asia, and the first time we have supplied a championship in Japan, from Japan," Matteo Braga, Pirelli's circuit activity manager, said.

"With a diverse range of cars and several demanding circuits, Super Taikyu provides a challenge to a tire supplier but it is one we are well equipped to face with our experience around the world, as well as the competence of our local team."

Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd. previously supplied the series, according to information posted on the series' website.