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Pirelli to continue to supply GP2 and GP3

GP2 will continue to use Pirelli tyres next year © Sutton Images

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Pirelli has secured a multi-year deal to remain as the sole tyre supplier to GP2 and GP3 in upcoming seasons.

The two championships currently act as feeder series to Formula One and are run as support races at various venues. Pirelli has supplied GP3 since its inception in 2010 and took over the GP2 contract from Bridgestone when it also gained the F1 supply deal in 2011.

Pirelli is believed to be very close to securing an F1 supply deal beyond 2013 and the news that it will continue in GP2 and GP3 suggests an announcement could be close.

"We're delighted to continue supplying our tyres to both the GP2 and GP3 championships, which have proved to be an effective ladder of opportunity for those wishing to compete at the top levels of motorsport," Pirelli motorsport boss Paul Hembery said. "It is the perfect training ground and we've already witnessed several drivers progress up the ranks to compete in Formula One, which just goes to show how important these championships are.

"GP2 and GP3 also allow drivers to learn how to deal with important issues such as tyre management on some of the world's most challenging and famous race circuits. The competitive edge in both championships has been evident throughout the season with a record number of different race winners.

"There is no doubt that GP2 and GP3 will continue to form an integral step in any racing career, and we look forward to continuing to work with some of the world's most promising drivers in the years to come. Part of our philosophy at Pirelli has always been to cultivate the champions of the future, which is why our participation in GP2 and GP3 is so important to us."

GP2 and GP3 Series CEO Bruno Michel added: "I am very happy to have renewed our deal with Pirelli for the forthcoming seasons. Our relationship, which started when we launched GP3 in 2010, has always been strong and healthy. It was then natural to choose them for GP2 Series since they also had become F1 sole supplier and it has always been our philosophy to use the same tyre supplier as F1's. For the past three seasons this partnership has provided some of the best races in our history. It is great working with Pirelli: they are very reactive and understanding of what needs to be provided in order to make our categories extremely competitive.

"As sole tyre supplier to both our Series, Pirelli prepares young drivers for the next step where tyre management is key, but also fully supports them in the development of their career: the GP3 Champion will again receive a cheque of 200,000 Euros from Pirelli should he graduate to GP2 whilst the GP2 Champion will be offered a day of tyre testing behind the wheel of a Formula One car."

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