Parth Ghorpade got bitten by the racing bug at a young age. He started racing Go karts at the age of nine and went on to become  a five times National Karting Champion between 2003-2010, while also representing India at the Rotax World Finals in 2008,2009 & 2010.

In 2010 Parth moved on to cars and was the VW Polo Cup Vice Champion. His International racing career started with the French FFSA Renault F4 Championship in 2011 and in 2012 he was the Asian Champion in Formula Pilota China.

Parth levelled up by becoming the first Indian driver to test at the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2013. Today he is an experienced racer in Formula Renault , Formula 3, Lamborghini Super Trofeo , LMP3 in the Ultimate Cup and LMP2 in the European Le Mans series. His goal is to continue racing in the LMP2 category and progress to the World Endurance Championship.

The champion racer talked to Tyre Trends on one of the most critical elements in motorsports – tyres.

You’ve been racing since 2003, over the years, you’ve had many victories. How important a role have tyres played in your races?

Tyres are as critical to winning as the engine and chassis. While race tyres are built to the highest standards of quality ,sometimes you do get a set that works better than average, at other times you might get a set that is not uniform. Your performance will vary accordingly.

Choosing the right tyre at the right time is crucial. Do you have a checkpoint list that you go through to determine which tyre you should use?

It is only in the FIA F3, F2, and F1 that you get a choice of multiple dry and wet compounds. Most other series have just one type of dry and wet tyre. Which compound to use is a complex decision based on track conditions, set ups, driving styles and tyre wear. Races are won and lost on tyre strategies and tyre strategies are constantly evolving.

Tyres (The Dark Art) - Managing your tyres is a tricky thing for a driver. Keeping the tyres in a correct temperature range, not too hot and not too cold. How do you manage the balance between the two?

It is important not to overdrive and overheat your tyres in the early stages of a qualifying lap or the race itself. A lot depends upon your driving style! The smoother the better, for tyre wear. At the same time, slow running behind a safety car requires continuous weaving and braking to maintain tyre and brake temperature. Same applies when coming into the grid for the start. Engineers will tell you how many wheel spins to do before the grid spot.

As an experienced Formula 1 driver, do you weigh in on the choice of tyres needed for a race or does the Team take a decision on their own?

In the series I have raced (single seaters and endurance prototypes), everyone uses the same slick or wet tyre. But the engineers do take into consideration the track conditions and characteristics in choosing tyre pressures, ideal lap times to prevent premature tyre wear and at the same time maintain a good pace. Sometimes the start may be on a damp/wet track which is expected to dry out later. It is always difficult to decide whether to start on wet tyres or slicks. This is where the experience and skill of the driver is important.The right call can get you a podium!  Personally, I am very comfortable in wet racing conditions, but whatever the conditions, you still need to manage your tyres over a race distance, and also maximise their potential during qualifying.

The new tyre rules for 2020 have been delayed till 2022. Do you feel that the new tyre rules would have made a big difference in how a race car performs on the track?

For 2022, the 13inch wheels will be replaced by 18inch wheels. Thus, we will be looking at a heavier and a lower profile tyre which is expected to be upto 2 seconds slower than the current tyre. However, these low-profile tyres may be less sensitive aerodynamically and may encourage closer racing. The teams will come up with new changes on the chassis to make up for the small loss of speed.

Any advice for young racing aspirants?

Motorsports is an expensive sport, especially if you aspire to reach the top levels. It is not possible to practice like other sports, so you have to adapt to limited testing opportunities and at the same time maintain a very high level of physical and mental fitness. Top level karting is the foundation of your race craft and driving techniques and it is important to invest time and money in this first rather than go straight to cars.

There are opportunities to develop karting skills via the Rotax championships and entry level experience in cars here. But if you aspire to race professionally, then the sooner you start racing in Europe or Asia the better. We do not have the infrastructure or number of races in India to develop beyond a certain point. If you have the will, and the financial backing , go for it.

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Bridgestone Corporation has unveiled its comprehensive motorsports engagement strategy for 2026, reaffirming its dedication to competitions spanning all levels, from elite international championships to grassroots events for amateur enthusiasts. This initiative will prominently feature the POTENZA brand for four-wheel racing and the BATTLAX brand for two-wheel competitions, operating under the core philosophy that tyres are essential to safeguarding life.

In the realm of premier racing, the company supplies tyres under both the Bridgestone and Firestone banners. The Bridgestone brand continues its dominant presence in Japan's premier SUPER GT series, where POTENZA-equipped teams recently secured an unprecedented fifth overall championship title in both the GT500 and GT300 categories. Simultaneously, on two wheels, BATTLAX-equipped competitors have achieved their fifth consecutive victory – and sixth overall – in the gruelling FIM Endurance World Championship, underscoring the tyre technology's reliability and performance under extreme conditions.

Complementing these achievements, the historic Firestone brand upholds its 125-year legacy as the exclusive tyre supplier for the renowned NTT INDYCAR SERIES. This partnership includes providing tyres for the legendary INDY500, ensuring the continuation of this exhilarating motorsport tradition. Through these diverse activities, the technologies honed from the racetrack directly contribute to the evolution of its consumer product lines, strengthening the Bridgestone brand and bringing new innovations to customers worldwide.

The company prioritises competitor safety and confidence by supplying tyres meticulously developed and proven on the racetrack, thereby actively nurturing the broader motorsports culture. Crucially, the high-stakes environment of racing serves as a mobile laboratory, where technological advancements forged in the pursuit of victory are transferred to enhance consumer and commercial tyres, reinforcing the brand's commitment to delivering superior value.

Hiroshi Imai, Vice President and Senior Officer, Global Motorsports Bridgestone Corporation, said, “Motorsports is the ultimate team sport. Everyone involved will come together as 'One Team’, embracing the challenge of motorsports with passion and supplying tyres we have poured our hearts and souls into. We hope to bring joy to drivers, riders, teams and all the fans who come to witness the thrill of racing. I feel as if I'm rolling along with our tyres on the track! This year, we are also sharing the voices of 10 of our teammates who work in motorsports tyre structural design, material development, production and motorsports operations. Please look forward to the efforts of our dedicated teammates who face tyres every day, and their passion through ‘Genbutsu-Genba’ to pursue the ultimate in tyre performance.”

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CEAT Limited recently organised a specialised engagement initiative for women fleet owners at its manufacturing complex in Chennai. The programme aimed to foster professional dialogue and knowledge sharing while providing an in-depth look at the intricacies of tyre production and development. Attendees, who came from diverse regions across the country, toured the company’s advanced Chennai facility, which holds a 'World Economic Forum Lighthouse' designation. During the visit, they witnessed key production stages, engaged with technical experts and learned about the quality control, safety protocols and innovative practices integral to CEAT's operations.

This effort brought together 14 women transporters representing various roles and business sizes within the logistics sector, collectively contributing decades of industry experience. The gathering was arranged in collaboration with the Women’s Wing of the All India Transporters Welfare Association (AITWA), with participants hailing from major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai. The initiative was supported by Reema Kothari Jogani, Chairperson of the AITWA Women’s Wing.

While women still form a modest segment of India's transport workforce, their involvement has been steadily rising. This trend is significant in the context of the country's broader economic ambitions, including the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and the goal of a USD 30 trillion economy, where women-led development is seen as a key driver. The logistics industry itself is projected to grow substantially from its 2024 valuation of USD 354 billion to USD 800 billion by 2030.

CEAT is actively working to increase female participation, particularly in manufacturing. Through automation, ergonomic enhancements and lift-assist systems, the company has made physically demanding roles more accessible. These measures have resulted in women comprising 20 percent of the workforce at the Chennai plant. Furthermore, the Nagpur facility, which was the first in Maharashtra to permit night shifts for women, has achieved 28 percent female representation on its shop floor. The company’s focus extends beyond numbers to creating an environment where women are encouraged to lead and excel in roles that have been traditionally male-dominated.

Vishal Pawar, Senior Vice President – Global Sales and Supply Chain, CEAT, said, “Women fleet owners are playing a pivotal role in redefining the boundaries of the transport sector. Their determination and entrepreneurial spirit inspire us. At CEAT, we are proud to create meaningful avenues for them to engage with the industry, build networks and gain deeper exposure to manufacturing and technology. We remain committed to supporting their journey of growth and empowerment.”

Reema Kothari Jogani said, “Building an inclusive logistics ecosystem requires collaboration between industry stakeholders, organisations and entrepreneurs. CEAT’s initiative is a constructive step towards strengthening this ecosystem by enabling women fleet owners to interact with experts, learn from best practices and explore the operational depth of modern manufacturing. These are women who not only run and grow their businesses together but also share a strong sense of camaraderie supporting each other and finding moments of fun along the way. Such engagements help accelerate the participation of women in a traditionally male dominated sector and contribute to long term industry transformation.”

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The ongoing conflict in West Asia presents serious challenges for India’s tyre industry, according to the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA), which has called on the government to introduce policy measures to ease the emerging pressures. In a recent submission, ATMA detailed how the geopolitical turmoil is likely to disrupt export activity, drive up raw material prices and strain the sector’s supply chain.

India sends tyres worth an estimated USD 250–260 million to West Asia each year, a trade flow now at risk. The situation is further complicated by potential blockages or delays in strategic maritime passages like the Strait of Hormuz and the Suez Canal, which could slow shipments to Europe, United States and Africa while pushing freight costs higher.

Soaring crude oil prices, currently around USD 100 per barrel, are compounding the problem. Given that crude derivatives account for 60 to 70 percent of the materials used in tyre production, inputs such as synthetic rubber, carbon black and processing oils are becoming significantly more expensive. Import-reliant segments of the supply chain, including natural rubber, chemicals and tyre cord fabrics, are also feeling the strain from disrupted global shipping routes.

ATMA has proposed a range of government interventions to help the industry navigate these headwinds. These include reinstating previous RoDTEP rates, improving Duty Drawback benefits and correcting the inverted duty structure affecting tyres and natural rubber. Easing import restrictions on natural rubber – such as lifting port limitations, removing pre-import conditions and extending the export obligation period to 18 months – has also been suggested. In addition, the association recommends lowering or removing customs duties on other raw materials that are either in short supply domestically or not produced locally.

To maintain continuity in production, ATMA has urged that the tyre industry and its Tier-1 suppliers be classified as ‘Essential’ services. This designation would help secure a steady supply of natural gas and LPG, both vital for manufacturing. Any disruption, the association warns, could ripple through sectors reliant on mobility, including logistics, agriculture and public health services. ATMA remains hopeful that timely government support will preserve the stability and global competitiveness of India’s tyre sector.

Arun Mammen, Chairman, ATMA, said, “For the Indian tyre industry, the combined impact of rising input costs, freight disruptions and export uncertainties could affect competitiveness in international markets. At a time when India is focused on strengthening its export momentum, it is important that the industry receives timely policy support to navigate these challenges."

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Falken Tyre has announced the return of its popular ‘Falken Says Fill Up’ campaign, scheduled to run from 15 March to 31 May 2026 across 20 European markets. The initiative is designed to pair a strong product offering with an appealing customer incentive. Those purchasing a set of Falken summer or all-season tyres of at least 16 inches, excluding those for lorries, will receive a fuel voucher as part of the promotion.

The campaign places particular emphasis on the Falken ZIEX ZE320, a summer tyre developed to meet the demands of contemporary driving. It offers high levels of comfort, precise handling and a well-balanced combination of efficiency and everyday practicality. An enhanced rubber compound contributes to superior wet grip, while lower rolling resistance helps reduce both fuel use and CO₂ emissions relative to the previous model. The tyre is especially suited to frequent drivers and families seeking safety, durability and a smooth experience during long journeys in warm conditions. The summer range also includes the sporty Falken AZENIS FK520, noted for its stability and short braking distances, alongside the newly introduced Falken EUROALL SEASON AS220, an all-season tyre built to perform reliably in fluctuating weather.

In addition to the fuel voucher, Falken is introducing two new giveaways for the 2026 edition. Collaborating with Enders, the company will offer high-end gas grills from the UNIQ PRO 3 IK KITCHEN Cruster line. Furthermore, in partnership with the Professional Darts Corporation, branded dart sets will also be available.

The campaign will be active in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Switzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. It is important to note that both the nature and value of the fuel vouchers, as well as the exact timing of the promotion, may differ from one country to another.

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