JANUARY 12, 2001

Bridgestone announce changes at the top

FORMULA ONE tire suppliers Bridgestone have announced that their president, chairman of the board and chief executive officer Yoichiro Kaizaki will retire.

FORMULA ONE tire suppliers Bridgestone have announced that their president, chairman of the board and chief executive officer Yoichiro Kaizaki will retire.

Kaizaki will be replaced by Shigeo Watanabe, subject to approval from Bridgestone's board after the Japanese company's general meeting of shareholders on March 29.

Bridgestone will face stiff competition in Formula One this year from French tire manufacturers Michelin, who return to the sport after a 15-year absence.

Kaizaki will continue to work for Bridgestone as a full-time advisor to the board.