Sumitomo Rubber Industries says it will stop supplying Dunlop-branded kart tyres on Dec. 31, 2027. The company said the decision followed a review of how to run the business and allocate management resources in response to changes in the operating environment, as part of its medium- to long-term management strategy.
Sumitomo Rubber has developed, manufactured and sold kart tyres globally, focusing on products approved domestically by the Japan Automobile Federation, or JAF, and internationally by the CIK-FIA, the karting commission under motorsport governing body FIA. JAF is Japan’s national motorsports authority and certifies equipment and events for domestic competition.
The company said it had supported a wide range of kart users, from hobby drivers to young competitors aiming for top categories, while also contributing to broader participation in the sport and the development of next-generation drivers.
Karting is widely regarded as an entry point to higher levels of motorsport, with national and international competitions using regulated tyre specifications.