JEDDAH, 25 March 2007 — Bridgestone continues to support motorsport at the grassroots level with its announcement over the weekend to sponsor Saudi Autocross Championship 2007. This follows a contract signed between Saudi Star Autocross Organizer Abdullah Bakhashab and Bridgestone General Manager Akihito Ishii. Ali Alattas, marketing manager, Al Talayi Establishment, sole distributor of Bridgestone in the Kingdom, was among those present.
The tire manufacturer decided to sign the deal on realizing the growing potential of motorsport activities such as Hail Rally 2007, one of the world rally championship rounds, conducted as per International Automobile Federation rules, as well as the great success of autocross events across the Kingdom in the past.
It is the first time for a major international tire company like Bridgestone, with a significant history in Formula 1, to support the Kingdom’s effort in staging motorsport events.
According to the agreement, Bridgestone will supply its tires to all participating cars in testing, practicing, and qualifying laps of the championship wherever they are held across the Kingdom. Consequently, the drivers will have an opportunity to compete with high quality Bridgetone tires suitable for different kinds of motorsport activities.
Ishii said: “The main purpose of the sponsorship is to attract young talents to the championship and divert them from practicing their driving skills at public places.” Abdullah Bakhashab said: “There is no doubt that such important steps reflect the progress of motorsport in the Kingdom, especially Saudi Star Autocross championship.”
