Pirelli replaces Yokohama as the official tyre supplier for Macau GP

In what is said to have been a close competition, Pirelli has replaced Yokohama as the sole tyre supplier for Macau F3 Grand Prix. Yokohama, which had been the official tyre supplier for the event since 1983, would however continue to supply tyres to the Japanese F3.

This is the first time Pirelli would be controlling rubber for this event. Apart from the above mentioned two tyre makers, European F3 supplier Hankook was also being considered for the deal. However it is believed that a later stage the choice had to be made between Pirelli and Yokohama.

This could be seen as another feather in Pirelli's cap, since it is also the sole tyre supplier for the prestigious Formula One race, apart from GP2 and GP3 series.

This year is seeing FIA's keen interest in Macau GP. This could be in the wake of former race co-coordinator Barry Bland's withdrawal of his involvement in the race, with him resigning a month ago.

The Italian tyre maker is yet to try tyres suitable for F3, but considering the similarities between F2 and F3 races, this hardly seems to be a concern for Pirelli to worry about.