Bridgestone to withdraw from F1

Bridgestone will withdraw as formula one’s control tyre supplier at the end of the 2010 season.

In a statement, Bridgestone Motorsport director Hiroshi Yasukawa said: 'The decision made by the board of directors comes after considerable and lengthy evaluations and has been based on the company's need to redirect its resources towards further intensive development of innovative technologies.'

Bridgestone has supplied tyres to F1 teams since 1997, but became the sole supplier in 2008 season, following Michelin's departure.

'Our sincere appreciation is extended to Bernie Ecclestone and Formula One Management (FOM), the F1 teams with whom it has been an honour to work alongside and the many F1 fans who have followed our activities over the past 13 years,' said Yasukawa.