TOKYO—Bridgestone Corp. has become the International Paralympic Committee's seventh Worldwide Paralympic Partner.
The move gives Bridgestone global rights to promote and support the Paralympic Movement through to 2024, according to a company news release.
Bridgestone already is a Worldwide Olympic Partner through the same period.
As an IPC partner, Bridgestone will receive global IPC rights in categories including tires, tire services and selected automotive vehicle services, self-propelled bicycles, seismic isolation bearings and some building and industrial products.
Bridgestone also is a Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games Gold Partner and a partner for the Japan, Thailand and U.S. Paralympic teams. The company supports several international para athletes, including eight Bridgestone employees who are training to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.
"Bridgestone is honored to become a Worldwide Paralympic Partner and further support the IPC's important mission to create a more inclusive society through Para sport," Bridgestone CEO Masaaki Tsuya said in a statement. "Bridgestone is committed to improving the way people move, live, work and play, and our company's core values of service and diversity are reflected in the Paralympic Movement. Together, we will celebrate the world's most remarkable athletes and inspire people of all abilities to chase their dreams."
Bridgestone also is developing advancements in equipment for Para athletes in Japan, including new rubber soles for prosthetics and rubber grips for gloves. Through Bridgestone Cycle Co. Ltd. And Bridgestone Sports Co. Ltd., the company has also provided bicycles, sports equipment and technical support to Para cycling and wheelchair tennis athletes in Japan.
The increase in commitment aligns with the company's "Chase Your Dream" message, which aims to encourage people to overcome obstacles and persevere in pursuit of their goals, according to Bridgestone.
"We are absolutely delighted that Bridgestone will become the IPC's seventh Worldwide Paralympic Partner and believe the company's 'Chase Your Dream' message enjoys perfect synergy with the aspirations of the Paralympic Movement and the IPC," IPC President Andrew Parsons said in a statement. "Part of the IPC's vision relates to Para athletes achieving sporting excellence, in effect people with a disability chasing their dreams through Para sport at all levels of competition. By working together, I hope we can empower even more people around the world to chase their own dreams."