Goodyear Introduces Global Racing Organization to Elevate Motorsport Strategy Globally

Goodyear Unifies Racing Initiatives with New Global Organization

On September 30, 2025, the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT) announced a significant enhancement to its racing strategy with the launch of a new Global Racing organization. This initiative aims to consolidate all motorsport operations under a singular global framework, a move that highlights Goodyear’s commitment to innovation and excellence in racing.

Xavier Fraipont, a seasoned veteran in the racing industry, has been appointed as the Vice President of Global Racing. His leadership role, which begins on October 1, will focus on guiding the organization’s strategic vision while integrating Goodyear's broader product and branding goals. With nearly thirty years in the racing sector and product development within Goodyear, Fraipont is well-equipped to steer the company's motorsport strategy.

His responsibilities will include harmonizing teams that work with major racing series such as NASCAR, NHRA, WEC (LMGT3 class), and BTCC into a cohesive unit. The aim is to strengthen collaboration across various departments, ensuring that technical innovation aligns closely with brand strategy and market presence.

Chris Helsel, Goodyear's Senior Vice President and Chief Technical Officer, expressed enthusiasm about Fraipont's depth of experience. He stated, “Goodyear has been synonymous with car racing since the very beginning of our history. With Xavier’s deep expertise and leadership at the helm, we’re advancing our commitment to innovation — enhancing performance and elevating our competitive edge worldwide.”

Goodyear’s rich motorsport heritage is also bolstered by its role as the exclusive tire supplier for some of the most renowned racing series globally. At the heart of this legacy is the iconic Eagle tire, known for its performance and reliability, continuing to set benchmarks across various racing disciplines.

Will Roland, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, added, “Motorsport is a central pillar of our brand strategy. It’s where our technology, performance, and brand identity converge. The best and fastest tires in the world have Goodyear written all over them, and racing provides the ultimate proving ground - demonstrating the speed, precision, and reliability that define our products.”

Backed by over a century of racing excellence, Goodyear Racing is poised to embark on a unified, forward-looking motorsport strategy. This strategic framework is designed not only to fuel innovation but also to amplify brand impact and drive growth across the organization.

In conclusion, Goodyear’s establishment of the Global Racing organization marks an important step in evolving its motorsport presence. The new leadership under Fraipont promises to streamline operations and enhance competitive performance in a rapidly changing racing landscape, solidifying Goodyear's legacy as a leader in the tire industry. As it continues to innovate, the company aims to intertwine deeper connections between its racing initiatives and brand identity, ensuring that Goodyear remains an integral part of the motorsport community for years to come.