Tokyo, July 11: Bridgestone has insisted it is committed to Formula One for the long term amid speculation the Japanese tyre company might quit the sport at the end of 2004. The company, which works closely with world champions Ferrari, said in a statement that "it has no intention of withdrawing from the FIA Formula One world championship.
"There has never been a moment that Bridgestone has thought of withdrawing from Formula One since our entry back in 1997," said motorsport director Hiroshi Yasukawa.
Reports in the European media had speculated that Bridgestone, facing strong competition from rivals Michelin, who supply Williams and McLaren, might be preparing to pull out. Bridgestone have won the last five constructors' and drivers' championships.
Ferrari driver Michael Schumacher is leading this year's title chase, eight points ahead of McLaren driver Kimi Raikkonen and 11 ahead of his brother Ralf, who drives for Williams.

Bureau Report