Firestone, the sole tire supplier of the IndyCar series since 2000, is evaluating all its options as it is in the process of deciding on whether or not to cancel its IndyCar program following the 2011 season when its current contract expires.
Randy Bernard, the CEO of the IndyCar series, is negotiating with the tire manufacturer and says that he is optimistic that he will be able to keep Firestone on-board at least through 2012.
But the potential withdrawal of the tire company has left the IndyCar officials with the obligation to look elsewhere to find a suitable replacement for the new chassis due later this year.
Cooper Tire could be a possible replacement since it has participated in Formula Atlantic and Star Mazda series while Michelin was a major player in Formula One and ALMS for several seasons.
Mazda, IndyCar’s new sponsor for the Road to Indy, continues to maintain close ties to Cooper, which could aid in its arrival if Firestone does indeed chose to leave.
Randy Bernard, the CEO of the IndyCar series, is negotiating with the tire manufacturer and says that he is optimistic that he will be able to keep Firestone on-board at least through 2012.
But the potential withdrawal of the tire company has left the IndyCar officials with the obligation to look elsewhere to find a suitable replacement for the new chassis due later this year.
Cooper Tire could be a possible replacement since it has participated in Formula Atlantic and Star Mazda series while Michelin was a major player in Formula One and ALMS for several seasons.
Mazda, IndyCar’s new sponsor for the Road to Indy, continues to maintain close ties to Cooper, which could aid in its arrival if Firestone does indeed chose to leave.