Sumitomo Rubber to end karting tire supply at end of 2027

Tokyo, Japan – Sumitomo Rubber Industries Ltd. said it will discontinue its supply of karting tires at the end of 2027, ending a business that has operated for more than five decades.

The company, which supplies karting tires under the Dunlop brand, said Sept. 4 that the decision was made as part of its medium- to long-term management strategy and in response to changes in the business environment.

Sumitomo Rubber said it had reviewed the future direction of the business and the allocation of management resources before deciding to withdraw from the karting tire business.

The company began supplying karting tires in 1976. During that time, it developed, manufactured and sold tires used by recreational drivers as well as young competitors seeking to advance to higher levels of motorsports.

Its karting tires have included products homologated by the Commission Internationale de Karting-FIA, an organization under the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, as well as tires accredited by the Japan Automobile Federation.

Sumitomo Rubber said it will continue supplying products to existing customers through Dec. 31, 2027, when supply will end.

The company thanked customers, users and related organizations for their support over the years and said it will continue contributing to the development of mobility through its involvement in motorsports.