02-Nov-09: Bridgestone to Leave F1 After 2010

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It’s the 2nd November 2009 and this is F1 Minute.

We were expecting some news from Williams, confirming their drivers for 2010, and were taken by surprise when Bridgestone confirmed they would be leaving the sport at the end of next season. Their statement read: “The decision made by the board of directors comes after considerable and lengthy evaluations and has been based on the company’s need to redirect its resources towards further intensive development of innovative technologies.” Right.

Meanwhile, we did get the announcement from Williams, with their lineup for next season as Rubens Barrichello and Nico Hulkenberg. Sir Frank Williams said: “Rubens needs no introduction. He is not only the most experienced driver in Formula 1, but a passionate and talented driver who fought hard for the drivers’ championship this year. Nico Hulkenberg won the GP2 Championship this season as a rookie and has previously won the F3 Euro Series, A1 GP and Formula BMW Germany.”

That’s all for today, I’ll be back tomorrow with another F1 Minute.