Michelin Extends IMSA Partnership In Multi-Year Deal

Michelin Extends IMSA Partnership In Multi-Year Deal

French tyre maker Michelin has extended its partnership with the International Motor Sports Association for several years, maintaining its position as exclusive tyre supplier for IMSA’s three main racing championships in North America.

The deal covers the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge and IMSA VP Racing Sportscar Challenge, the companies said, without disclosing financial terms or the specific duration of the agreement.

Michelin, which has supplied tyres to the IMSA series for years, said endurance racing serves as a critical testing ground for advanced materials and technologies that eventually transfer to consumer products.

“Michelin has been innovating for more than 130 years, and competition has always been at the heart of that journey,” said Alexis Garcin, executive vice president of Michelin. “From the first removable bicycle tyre to the Pilot Sport Endurance range, many of our breakthroughs have consistently come from the racetrack. IMSA gives us a competitive ecosystem to validate new technologies under real pressure, and that’s exactly where Michelin thrives.”

The Clermont-Ferrand-based company said it is applying advanced tread compounds, simulation tools and data analytics developed through racing to its broader product portfolio, linking track performance with commercial tyre development.

John Doonan, IMSA president, said: “Michelin has been a cornerstone of IMSA’s success. Their technical expertise and commitment to innovation have elevated the level of competition across our series. We’re proud to continue this journey together.”

The partnership extension comes as IMSA pursues technological advances, including hybrid powertrains and electrification in sports car racing. Michelin said it would remain a technical partner in developing solutions for these evolving requirements.

Continental Tire Partners with Fleetio to Streamline Fleet Tire Management

Continental Tire Partners with Fleetio to Streamline Fleet Tire Management

Continental Tire the Americas, LLC has formed a strategic partnership with fleet management platform Fleetio, enabling direct access to Continental and General Tire brands through the digital platform.

The tie-up allows fleet managers using Fleetio’s system to purchase tyres, track usage, and monitor performance data across their operations, with the aim of reducing overall ownership costs.

"Continental is committed to delivering innovative solutions that help fleets operate more efficiently," said Dan Gould, Sr. Commercial Sales Manager, Continental Tire. "By partnering with Fleetio, we're making it easier than ever for fleet operators to access our trusted tire brands and make data-driven decisions that support safety, uptime, and cost savings."

Fleetio's platform handles maintenance scheduling, inspections, fuel tracking and parts management for commercial fleets. The company supports more than one million vehicles across 100-plus countries and processes over 13 million repair orders annually through a network of 110,000 repair shops.

The platform counts AAA, Stanley Steemer and Subaru of America amongst its customer base. Fleetio recently expanded its maintenance shop network into Canada as part of its push into enterprise-level fleet operations.

"We're proud to welcome Continental Tire and General Tire into Fleetio's Maintenance Shop Network," said Kendee Vaughn, Director of Vendor Partnerships at Fleetio. "Together, we're making it easier for fleets to access trusted tire brands through a single, comprehensive platform built for speed, scale, and reliability."

The partnership represents Continental's latest move to integrate digital solutions into its commercial tyre business as fleet operators increasingly seek centralised platforms to manage vehicle operations.

Mickey Thompson Named Official Tyre Sponsor For Jeep Jamboree Events

 Mickey Thompson Named Official Tyre Sponsor For Jeep Jamboree Events

Mickey Thompson Tires & Wheels has signed on as the official tyre and wheel sponsor of Jeep Jamboree USA and Jeep Adventure Academy, the off-road tyre brand.

The partnership will see Mickey Thompson products, including its Baja Boss and Baja Legend lines, featured at Jeep Jamboree events aimed at both novice and experienced off-road enthusiasts.

"We're thrilled to welcome Mickey Thompson as the official tire and wheel of Jeep Jamboree USA & Jeep Adventure Academy," said Pearse Umlauf, President of Jeep Jamboree USA. "Mickey Thompson's legacy in off-road performance and commitment to the enthusiast community makes them a perfect fit for our events, which are all about education, exploration and building lifelong connections through off-roading adventures."

The Stow, Ohio-based company offers tyres ranging from 37 to 44 inches designed for off-road use. Event participants will have opportunities to test the products across various terrains and vehicle configurations.

"Jeepers are at the heart of Mickey Thompson," said Matt Arko, general manager, Marketing & Product at Mickey Thompson. "Whether they've just purchased their first Jeep or have been wheeling for years, we want to help them push their limits and discover what their vehicles are capable of. This partnership is about empowering off-roaders to do amazing things – and make lasting memories – with their Jeeps, and we couldn't be more excited to be part of this community."

Founded in 1963 by Mickey Thompson and Gene McMannis, the company markets performance, racing and off-road tyres globally.

Goodyear launches Eagle F1 All-Season tyre for performance-focused drivers

Goodyear launches Eagle F1 All-Season tyre for performance-focused drivers

Goodyear Tire & Rubber launched its Eagle F1 All-Season, a premium ultra-high-performance tyre designed to deliver year-round capability for drivers who prioritise handling and grip.

The new tyre targets owners of sports cars, performance sedans and premium crossovers, offering what the company describes as exceptional performance in dry, wet and light snow conditions without requiring seasonal tyre changes.

“As one of our most premium performance tyres yet, the Goodyear Eagle F1 All Season is a testament to Goodyear’s commitment to innovation and versatility,” said Jim Reese, Director, Category Strategy and Planning for Goodyear. “We’re proud to offer a tyre that meets the needs of spirited drivers who want precision handling and all-season confidence—without switching tyres.”

The Eagle F1 All-Season features a motorsport-inspired tread pattern and compound designed to enhance durability and treadwear. It includes a built-in wear gauge to help motorists monitor tyre life.

Goodyear emphasised the tyre’s wet braking performance and its ability to deliver what it calls “track-level precision” whilst maintaining a quiet, comfortable ride for everyday driving.

The product is now available through Goodyear’s retail network and authorised dealers across the United States and Canada, expanding the company’s performance segment offering built on more than 50 years of racing heritage.

Yokohama Rubber supplies fuel-efficient tyres for Mitsubishi’s new eK Space

Yokohama Rubber supplies fuel-efficient tyres for Mitsubishi’s new eK Space

Yokohama Rubber has begun supplying its BluEarth-FE AE30 tyres as original equipment for Mitsubishi Motors Corp’s newly launched mini-vehicle, the eK Space.

The Japanese tyre manufacturer is providing 155/65R14 75S size tyres for the compact vehicle, which hit the market in October 2025.

The BluEarth-FE AE30 belongs to Yokohama’s environmentally focused BluEarth global brand, which emphasises being “environmentally, human, and socially friendly”. The fuel-efficient standard tyre offers a balance of performance characteristics, including low noise, comfort and longevity.

Mitsubishi’s eK Space targets a broad demographic with its modern design and spacious interior, combining urban manoeuvrability with passenger comfort.

Yokohama has been expanding its presence in the original equipment market, with its BluEarth technology now featured on various new vehicle models, including sedans, sport utility vehicles, sports cars and compact cars across petrol, hybrid and electric powertrains.