Bridgestone to supply Super Aguri

Bridgestone said they had entered a multi-year deal with the new team, whose entry in this year's championship was confirmed only last week.

The team, who are planning to test their car for the first time in February, will use Honda engines.

"The Super Aguri F1 team is a new but ambitious team and we are delighted that it has chosen Bridgestone to be its official supplier," said Hiroshi Yasukawa, Director of Bridgestone Motorsport.

"Working with a new team that is making its debut in the FIA Formula One World Championship is an extremely exciting prospect.

"Bridgestone has had a long relationship with the team's founder, Aguri Suzuki, spanning more than twenty years and encompassing numerous motorsport series. Consequently, we have every confidence in his ability and desire to run a successful and professional team.

"The Super Aguri F1 team's inaugural season will not be an easy one but we wish them the very best of luck in 2006 and we look forward to seeing them in action shortly."

The news means Bridgestone will supply five teams in 2006, with Aguri joining Ferrari, Williams, Toyota and Midland.

Michelin, who will quit F1 at the end of the year, will supply the other six teams.