F1 must remain 'technological' challenge for Pirelli, says CEO

40

Pirelli will only remain Formula 1's exclusive tyre supplier if the sport continues to provide the Italian company with a "technological" challenge said its CEO Marco Tronchetti Provera.

With a fundamental transformation on the way on all fronts, Formula 1 aims to build a new foundation from which to prosper beyond 2021 when it ushers in a new set of regulations.

Pirelli's boss hopes the company will very much be part of F1's future, but only if it continues to promote technological excellence.

Renault's Abiteboul: 'Still difficult to read Pirelli's tyres'

"If the challenge continues to be technological, giving the teams and drivers what they want, then we are here to do it," Tronchetti Provera told Italy's national radio broadcaster RAI.

"But if it becomes a commercial event, we will withdraw. So if the path remains we are there, if it doesn't we will not be.

Pirelli's current supplier deal with F1 expires at the end of 2019. While some drivers have leveled criticism at the company's compounds this season, Tronchetti Provera believes the action has been generally good this year, with the exception of last Sunday's Monaco procession.

"The important thing is that the drivers are more and more at the centre. I believe the tyres work when the drivers are happy, and the public is happy when the drivers are able to have a challenge," he said.

"The competition this year is generally more lively and that is good news.

"But it is clear that with the increase in the performance of the cars, both with aerodynamics and the tyres, overtaking at narrow circuits has become practically impossible."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.