Bridgestone have officially become Formula One's sole tyre supplier after signing a deal until the end of 2010.

The Japanese company made their debut in the championship in 1997 and have registered 121 wins - more than any other tyre supplier with the exception of Goodyear - in their 190 Grands Prix.

And, after eight world title wins with Mika Hakkinen, Michael Schumacher and Kimi Raikkonen, they become the first organisation to provide 'control tyres' to the Formula One field.

Hiroshi Yasukawa, Bridgestone's Motorsport Director, said: "Becoming the 'Official Tyre Supplier to the FIA Formula One World Championship' is a prestigious honour for Bridgestone and we await the start of the 2008 season with great anticipation.

"Our participation in Formula One is a core element of our company's expansion and development and this is an exciting step for us as a company.

"To be chosen by the FIA as the 'Official Tyre Supplier to the FIA Formula One World Championship' shows the high regard we are held in by the sport in which we have participated since 1997.

"As the sole tyre supplier to Formula One in 2007, we all saw a dramatic and exciting season with very close competition. We strived to treat all teams with fairness and we believe we did a good job."

After Michelin's withdrawal from Formula One, Bridgestone supplied the whole field in 2007, but was not the official tyre supplier, as the rule that dictates only one manufacturer will be allowed in the sport, only came into force this week.

Jamie O'Leary / Eurosport