Bridgestone celebrates its first title

Hiroshi Yamada, manager of Bridgestone's MotoGP project, said he was overwhelmed by the company's first championship success in the category

In its sixth season of MotoGP racing, Bridgestone clinched its first title at Motegi today as Casey Stoner secured the 2007 championship with sixth position.

"This is a truly amazing feeling and I really do not have the words to convey how I feel with today's result and with Casey and Ducati taking the riders' title in our home GP," said Yamada.

"Casey has been a really special addition to the Bridgestone family this year and I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to him for this well deserved championship, the first ever in motorcycle racing for a rider on Bridgestone tyres."

Stoner claimed the title in front of Bridgestone Corporation chairman, president and CEO Shoshi Arakawa, who also expressed his delight at his company's achievement.

"I am greatly honoured to see Casey win this championship in only our sixth season of competition and on our home soil," he said. "This is a truly unforgettable day for Bridgestone."

Bridgestone also took a clean sweep of the podium positions in the race, thanks to Loris Capirossi, Randy de Puniet and Toni Elias. The result came despite Michelin taking a one-two-three in qualifying.

"It has not been the easiest of weekends, but I am so honoured that we could secure a 1-2-3 with Loris showing his true Motegi magic once again, as well as the results from Randy and Kawasaki and Toni and Honda Gresini," said Yamada.

"Well done to everyone for a great job in really tough conditions, also a special thanks to all Bridgestone staff who have worked tirelessly for this fantastic result."