Sumitomo to discontinue production of karting tyres

Sumitomo Rubber Industries has announced it will cease production of karting tires by the end of 2027, a product line the company has offered since 1976, during which time it "earned the trust of numerous customers."

The company currently manufactures karting tires approved by the FIA International Karting Commission (CIK-FIA) and the Japan Automobile Federation (JAF), designed for both amateur users and young racers aiming to build careers in higher-level competitions. However, Sumitomo stated that "as part of the company's medium- and long-term strategy, and in response to changing market conditions, we have reviewed the direction of our business development, including resource allocation."

"As a result, we have made the difficult decision to exit the karting tire business," the company said, adding, "we will continue to supply our products to customers with full responsibility until December 31, 2027."

"We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our customers, including partner organizations, who have used our tires and supported us over the years," Sumitomo noted, emphasizing that "going forward, we will continue to contribute to the development of motorsports. We sincerely appreciate your continued support."

In Russia, last year the Nizhnekamsk-based Kama Tyres complex announced the launch of domestic production to replace imported karting tires.