Bridgestone Golf has unveiled the latest iteration of its premier ball franchise, the e6 SOFT TREADLINE, which now features the innovative 360 Align Tech. As the longest-running and best-selling series in the company’s history, this new model draws inspiration from the Bridgestone Dueler A/T Ascent tyre, applying tread-like technology to the golf ball’s design. The launch reinforces the brand’s commitment to blending automotive engineering insights with golf performance.

The new e6 SOFT TREADLINE maintains the core engineering that has defined its predecessors, including a large, soft and fast core with gradational compression to maximise ball speed and distance. Its seamless Surlyn cover ensures durability and responsive feedback, while advanced aerodynamic patterns promote stability during flight. This combination produces a high launch with low spin off the tee, alongside reliable short-game feel and control around the greens.

Central to the new design is the 360 Align Tech, a full-coverage alignment aid that wraps entirely around the ball. This feature assists golfers in putting precision, visualising roll, squaring the putter face and aiming with greater confidence while also supporting a repeatable pre-shot routine. The tread pattern provides a visible reference from any angle, helping players achieve cleaner setup visuals and improved target awareness.

Available now as a limited-edition two-piece model, the Bridgestone e6 SOFT TREADLINE is priced at USD 23.99 per dozen. Golfers seeking guidance on the ideal ball for their game can utilise the online Golf Ball Selection Guide available on the company’s official website.

Adam Rehberg, Senior Marketing Manager of golf balls at Bridgestone Golf, said, “Our research showed golfers are increasingly looking for more advanced visual alignment technology both on the tee and on the greens, and the 360-degree TREADLINE pattern is designed to deliver a highly effective solution in both environments. By integrating design inspiration from the Bridgestone Dueler A/T Ascent tyre, we were able to create a performance-driven alignment system with a unique connection to the broader Bridgestone brand.”

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Pirelli has confirmed the C2, C3 and C4 compounds as Hard, Medium and Soft for Formula 1’s return to Sepang International Circuit after a nine-year absence. The Malaysian venue replaces the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was not staged in April, and will test teams with machinery and tyres far removed from those used at the last race there in 2017.

Situated near Kuala Lumpur, the 5.543-kilometre circuit mixes long straights with high-speed corners, especially through the middle sector. Its medium energy demands place it in a severity range similar to Spa-Francorchamps and Shanghai, while ambient and track temperatures will make thermal degradation a central concern across the weekend.

Pirelli’s slightly more aggressive selection, compared with a more conservative harder trio, aims to broaden strategic options and narrow the gap between one-stop and two-stop approaches. Sepang’s abrasive surface is comparable in roughness to Bahrain, although grip is expected to be low on Friday before improving as the track evolves. Managing heat across both axles will be a principal difficulty.

The circuit has been modified in recent years, including resurfacing between Turns 6 and 12 in 2023 and further work around Turn 9. Additional levelling began in early September to remove asphalt irregularities, alongside cleaning to improve conditions. Pirelli engineers recently found the surface’s overall characteristics still closely matched those recorded in 2017.

Teams face a shortage of relevant data for the current car generation, making Friday practice unusually important for drivers familiarising themselves with a track many know only from simulators and for teams assessing balance and tyre behaviour. Afternoon thunderstorms, intense heat and high humidity could add further complexity, while Sepang hosts its 20th Grand Prix and remains a venue where Sebastian Vettel leads with four wins, Ferrari tops teams with seven and Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton share the pole record.

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The Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries (ANRPC) participated in CSCAP 2026, a regional forum on Accelerating Sustainable Consumption and Production for Climate Justice and Value Chain Resilience in Asia-Pacific. The event took place on 23–24 September 2026 at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand. ANRPC was represented by Secretary-General Dr Suttipong Angthong upon the organisers' invitation.

The two-day forum was organised by AFMA, FeedUP@UN, Sustainism and the Rubber Authority of Thailand (RAOT). It gathered policymakers, industry leaders, smallholder cooperatives, civil society organisations, climate scientists and development practitioners from across Asia-Pacific. Discussions centred on SDG 12, SDG 13 and SDG 15, emphasising links between high-level policy and practical implementation in natural rubber, coconut and sugarcane sectors.

Rubber figured heavily in the discussions. On day one, a high-level panel examined sustainable rubber and derivatives, traceability and deforestation-free supply chains, weighing how producing countries handle the EU Deforestation Regulation, cross-border compliance and national biodiversity frameworks from farm to tyre. Later sessions explored affordable monitoring, reporting and verification tools for smallholders, sustainability-linked finance and a rights-based approach to climate justice.

Dr Angthong shared ANRPC's perspective on conditions in producing countries, where smallholders account for the vast majority of global output. He emphasised that sustainability requirements must be paired with practical support, fair pricing and affordable traceability solutions. This, he argued, would ensure smallholders are not shut out of sustainable markets but instead benefit from the transition.

Dr Angthong said, “Natural rubber is the livelihood of millions of smallholder families across our member countries. The shift towards deforestation-free, low-carbon supply chains is an opportunity for our sector – but only if it is inclusive. CSCAP 2026 provided a valuable platform for producers, buyers, regulators and financiers to work together on solutions that are credible, affordable and fair to farmers. ANRPC will continue to serve as the voice of producing countries in shaping these solutions.”

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Pirelli & C. S.p.A. (Pirelli) and ABET High Tech Solutions S.r.l. (ABET HTS) were formally notified on 28 September 2026 of a Prime Ministerial Decree approved on 24 September 2026. The measure followed a Golden Power Procedure initiated by the Prime Minister’s Office after the two companies submitted a joint notification concerning their defence-sector activities and related plans.

Central to that notification was a co-development agreement announced on 5 August 2026. The arrangement covers joint technological work on remote-controlled electric ground vehicles intended for rescue operations in particularly difficult and extreme environments and on challenging surfaces.

The decree identified as strategically significant for Italy’s defence system, under Article 1 of Legislative Decree No. 21 of 2012, both the defence-related work of Pirelli and ABET HTS and the co-development agreement itself. Consequently, the Cabinet exercised special powers over the matter.

Acting on maximum precaution and to safeguard fundamental national defence and security interests, the decree imposed techno-organisational measures on both firms. These are designed to protect industrial property rights, know-how, products and related data of strategic value while ensuring continuity and standards in their research and development activities in the sector, both current and future. Pirelli and ABET HTS received the decision favourably.

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Titan International, Inc. is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Titan Strong Seller Associate Dealer Program, a decade defined by partnership, expansion and mutual achievement with its Associate Dealers and Master Distributors. What began as a dealer engagement initiative has grown into a central pillar of the company’s strategy, now counting hundreds of additional Associate Dealers and more than double the participation seen in its first full year. Over 30 percent of current members have remained with the programme since its early days, underscoring its success in retention, consistency and lasting value.

Associate Dealers in the programme consistently deliver strong results, supported by a broad set of benefits built to drive business growth and operational excellence. These include uncapped earning potential through volume incentives, priority access to new products and pre-order opportunities that offer a critical time-to-market edge and ongoing training and education. Hundreds of dealers receive instruction through Titan University and Advanced TIA Tire Service Training, while marketing support and sales tools are available via Titan’s dealer portal, THE HUB. Members also gain access to hundreds of products across multiple segments, opening new revenue streams and customer opportunities. Together, these elements form an ecosystem connecting dealers to Titan’s expertise, innovation and support network.

Titan’s industry partners demonstrate proper demounting techniques during the 2024 Advanced TIA Ag and OTR Tire Service Training.

Adaptability has been central to the programme’s longevity. Instead of remaining static, Titan has continually refined the initiative to keep it competitive, relevant and valuable amid rapid market change. To mark the milestone, the company unveiled a new ‘Decade of Strength’ emblem and updated marketing materials. Anniversary initiatives include a lowered first-tier incentive threshold, allowing dealers to begin earning rewards earlier in the year, special recognition for founding Associate Dealers and exclusive events such as a dedicated Associate Dealer and leadership dinner during Titan University in January and an upcoming event at the Farm Progress Show.

Looking ahead, Titan remains committed to strengthening its dealer network through continued investment in training, product innovation and programme improvements. The Titan Strong Seller Associate Dealer Program will keep serving as a strategic growth platform, helping dealers expand into new segments, seize emerging opportunities and stay competitive in a shifting marketplace.

Kendra Mann, Director of Aftermarket Sales, said, “For the past decade, the Titan Strong Seller Associate Dealer Program has reflected our unwavering commitment to our dealers’ success. This is not a transactional programme; it is a true growth partnership. By continuously investing in training, expanding product access and refining incentives, we’ve built a model that empowers dealers to grow their businesses while staying closely connected to Titan.”

Sam Morrison, Sales Programs and Promotions Manager, said, “What makes this programme unique is the combination of direct access to Titan and the strong partnerships we’ve built with our Master Distributors. Together, we’re able to provide Associate Dealers with the support, expertise and resources they need to succeed in their local markets.”

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