Ferrari 248 launch - Bridgestone press release - 24th January 21:17pm GMT

"Bridgestone Motorsport has been the official tyre supplier to the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro team since 1999 and we are this year embarking on our eighth season together. It is a remarkable collaboration which has produced no fewer than six Constructors' World Championship titles and five Drivers' World Championship titles.

"Our goal for 2006, after a difficult and challenging year in 2005, is to see our teams reach their maximum potential. For Ferrari, that is no doubt to return to the top step of the podium again and to aim to regain the championship titles. Winter testing has been progressing well and it is clear that the team intends to be a front running contender this year. Due to regulation changes, Ferrari has produced a strong V8 engine and a new chassis for 2006. Combined with our new Bridgestone Potenza F1 tyres, we believe that the team has huge potential for the season ahead.

"Bridgestone's staff are all highly motivated to provide Ferrari, and all our teams, the best possible tyres and servicing but it is important that the Bridgestone teams work together with us so that they can reach their own individual goals. The teams have recognised this need and it has been of huge benefit already to our engineers to have all our teams testing and providing good quality data.

"A good, strong relationship is the key to success and with this in mind, we welcome back Felipe Massa who will drive alongside Michael Schumacher at Ferrari this year. Bridgestone knows them both very well and we have high expectations of them. Luca Badoer and Marc Gene will also continue their important test driver roles. The team, the drivers and car have the potential so all that remains is to wish the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro team the very best of luck for the 2006 FIA Formula One World Championship."