FEBRUARY 17, 2003

Minardi finally signs with Bridgestone

Minardi has finally come to an agreement with Bridgestone for a supply of tires in 2003 after weeks of reports that the Japanese tire company was unwilling to supply the team.

"We're very pleased to have brought these negotiations to a satisfactory conclusion today," said Paul Stoddart.Ê"We now look forward to an excellent working relationship with our new tyre supplier, Bridgestone, during the coming season."

The F1 Sporting Regulations requires both tire suppliers, Bridgestone and Michelin, to supply up to six teams if requested. Bridgestone will supply Ferrari, Sauber, Jordan, BAR and Minardi in 2003, while Michelin will supply Williams, McLaren, Renault, Jaguar and Toyota.