Bridgestone are bringing the medium and super soft compounds from their tyre range to this weekend’s grand prix in Canada, a circuit which has a reputation as a something of a car breaker.
Hiroshi Yasukawa, Director of Bridgestone Motorsport, explains the commercial importance of Formula 1’s return to Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve: “The North American market is obviously very important for Bridgestone as well as motor manufacturers and Formula One sponsors, so we are very pleased to return to Canada for 2010.
“This country has many sports fans who enjoy Formula One very much. Historically, this has been one of the most watched races during the course of the season, which makes this event another good advertisement of our brand.
“We usually see a lot of action here, which will be part of an extensive programme for our guests. We expect big spectator numbers and millions of television viewers all around the world.”
Hirohide Hamashima, Bridgestone Director of Motorsport Tyre Development, says that the Montreal circuit will provide a tough challenge for teams and drivers: “This will be the first time since 1997 that we will race in Montreal with slick tyres. Previously, we have always found this a difficult circuit for deciding tyre allocations, and this will also be the first time we have raced at this track with a gap between compounds.
“The circuit's heavy traction and braking demands mean that a lot of heat is generated in the tyres so drivers need to be vigilant with their tyre management. The track surface can change a lot over the course of the weekend, and the weather in Montreal is often very variable too. I think that these factors will make our visit to Canada a good test for teams, drivers and Bridgestone.”
