WEC Extends Tire Supply Agreements with Michelin and Goodyear Through 2032
The World Endurance Championship (WEC) has recently confirmed the continuation of its crucial partnerships with two leading tire manufacturers, Michelin and Goodyear. This decision, extending their exclusive tire supply contracts until 2032, follows a meticulous tender process initiated by the FIA and the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO). The renewal ensures long-term stability and continued high-performance tire development for both the elite Hypercar class and the fiercely competitive LMGT3 category, reinforcing the championship's commitment to excellence and innovation in endurance racing.
WEC Solidifies Long-Term Tire Partnerships
In a significant development for the World Endurance Championship, the FIA and ACO announced on August 25, 2026, the successful conclusion of their tender process for tire supply. The outcome sees Michelin retaining its role as the exclusive tire supplier for the Hypercar class, while Goodyear will continue its dedicated support to the LMGT3 category. This strategic move extends their existing agreements, providing a clear roadmap for tire development and competition for the next six seasons.
Michelin, a long-standing partner of the WEC since its re-establishment in 2012, has been instrumental in the top prototype categories, including its exclusive supply to Hypercar since 2021 and its significant involvement in the preceding LMP1 class. The French tire giant's consistent delivery of cutting-edge technology and performance was a key factor in securing this extended agreement.
Goodyear, which entered the WEC scene in the 2019-20 season by taking over from its sister brand Dunlop for select LMP2 teams, solidified its position in endurance racing. The company became the sole tire partner for the LMGT3 category when it replaced GTE Am in 2024. Despite having recently conducted tests with Hypercars, including the Porsche 963 LMDh, Goodyear's renewed focus will remain on LMGT3, extending their commitment beyond the previously anticipated 2029.
The evaluation criteria for the tender were comprehensive, encompassing technical expertise, product quality, on-track performance across various conditions, operational efficiency, customer service capabilities, sustainability initiatives, marketing support, and the potential for long-term contributions to the growth of endurance racing. Both Michelin and Goodyear demonstrated their strong alignment with these parameters, ensuring a seamless transition and continuous evolution for the championship.
Matthieu Bonardel, director of Michelin Motorsport, expressed immense pride in the renewed trust from the FIA and ACO, highlighting the agreement as a testament to their tire quality, service, and capacity for innovation. He emphasized their shared ambition with manufacturers to push performance boundaries while advancing sustainable mobility.
Xavier Fraipont, vice president of Goodyear Racing, reiterated Goodyear's dedication to the LMGT3 platform, recognizing its significant growth potential and strong fan engagement. He affirmed Goodyear's commitment to collaborating with the ACO and FIA, aiming to strengthen their benchmark position in GT racing and translate their technical expertise from track to road-going vehicles. This long-term partnership is poised to foster continuous performance and innovation in one of the world's most demanding racing environments.
This dual renewal brings a welcome sense of consistency and reliability to the World Endurance Championship, benefiting teams and stakeholders by allowing them to plan with certainty for future seasons. It also underscores the WEC's dedication to maintaining high standards of competition and technical advancement, supported by trusted partners who are leaders in their field.
The extended tire supply agreements for the World Endurance Championship with Michelin and Goodyear mark a pivotal moment for the sport. This long-term commitment ensures stability for teams, fosters continued technological innovation in tire development, and reinforces the WEC's position as a premier global motorsport series. It’s a win-win, allowing both manufacturers to further refine their products in the crucible of elite competition while providing the championship with reliable, high-performance rubber crucial for thrilling races. This strategic move highlights the importance of strong, enduring partnerships in pushing the boundaries of automotive performance and sustainability, ensuring an exciting future for endurance racing enthusiasts worldwide.