Pirelli to come under Chinese ownership

China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina) will take over ownership of Pirelli by buying into Formula One’s official tyre supplier in a 7.1 billion Euro deal.

The Chinese state-owned firm will acquire 26.2% of the world’s fifth-largest tyre maker by purchasing the Italian holding company Camfin that currently owns the stake.

"The partnership with a global player like ChemChina, through its affiliates, represents a great opportunity for Pirelli," said Pirelli chairman and chief executive Marco Tronchetti Provera, who has been in charge for over 20 years.

"CNRC's approach to business and strategic vision guarantee Pirelli's development and stability."

Pirelli has been Formula One’s sole tyre supplier since Japanese manufacturer Bridgestone withdrew from the sport at the end of the 2010 season, with the Milan-based company having a contract through 2016.

The ChemChina/Pirelli deal comes at the time when the FIA is expected to start conducting a new tender process for the exclusive tyre supply in F1 from 2017 onwards.

Click here for the full gallery of the 2015 F1 drivers helmets

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

Julien Billiotte

Recent Posts

Leclerc admits F1 new era cars have blunted his biggest strength

Charles Leclerc believes Formula 1's new-era machinery has forced him to rethink one of the…

5 hours ago

Belgian GP: Thursday's media day in pictures

Formula 1's teams and drivers regroup this weekend surrounded by the  majesty of the Ardennes…

6 hours ago

Verstappen still keeping everyone guessing on Red Bull future

Max Verstappen has once again refused to reveal his hand on his Formula 1 future,…

7 hours ago

Aston Martin critically tight on spare parts at Spa ahead of key upgrade

Aston Martin is facing a race against time at Spa-Francorchamps, with the team's ambitious push…

8 hours ago

Red Bull reverts to proven rear-wing at Spa after Verstappen scares

Red Bull has opted for caution over innovation ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix…

9 hours ago

Verstappen Racing snaps up McLaren junior for driver academy

Max Verstappen has made a significant move away from the Formula 1 cockpit by welcoming…

10 hours ago