The DUNLOP Brand Strategy Presentation and Business Exhibition Briefing were held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
The DUNLOP brand's expansion covers a wide range of areas, including not only tire development and manufacturing but also sports and apparel.
In recent years, its business scope has also expanded into esports.
Let's take a look at DUNLOP's latest initiatives.
Sumitomo Rubber Industries Aims for the World With DUNLOP
The DUNLOP brand started in 1888 with the world's first pneumatic tire, invented by J.B. Dunlop in England.
Japan's first modern rubber factory began operations in 1909, and in 1963, the company changed its name to Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. after the Japanese ownership share exceeded 50%.
Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. acquired the DUNLOP brand trademark rights for four-wheel tires across Europe, North America, and Oceania in January 2025.
The company further announced that it would accelerate its global expansion by acquiring the exclusive right to use the DUNLOP trademark in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei in December.
The brand statement is TAKING YOU BEYOND, and the brand will create value across a wide range of fields, including the tire business, sports, and lifestyle.
Esports is one of those fields.
Gran Turismo × DUNLOP
In September 2025, Polyphony Digital and DUNLOP announced their partnership.
DUNLOP was appointed as the Official Tire Partner for the "Gran Turismo World Series" and "Gran Turismo 7."
The DUNLOP brand is scheduled to appear in various forms within "Gran Turismo 7" in the future.
A specially designed Porsche 911 GT3 R, jointly created with the Gran Turismo design team, was exhibited at the venue.
Saiga NAK
I was captivated by this masterpiece—a collaboration between the racing-spec Porsche 911 and DUNLOP's tradition.
I'd love to drive it.
Additionally, Dunlop tires will be included in the Spec III update, Version 1.65, for "Gran Turismo 7," which was released on Thursday, December 4, 2025 (Japan Time). Furthermore, the initial tires fitted on most cars (with some exceptions) will also be Dunlop tires.
Experience even better driving with Dunlop tires, which combine tradition and performance!
Two-Way Player Yusuke Tomibayashi Presents a Demonstration Drive
Yusuke Tomibayashi, who is active as a two-way player in motorsports and e-motorsports, also appeared at the event.
He gave a demonstration drive in Gran Turismo.
"Please try to feel the tire grip in Gran Turismo," said Tomibayashi.
In a single attempt, he completed a lap of Fuji Speedway in 1 minute and 39 seconds.
DUNLOP's GAMING MUSCLE Series
As often covered by Saiga NAK, Sumitomo Rubber Industries (DUNLOP) also operates the esports brand GAMING MUSCLE.
In September 2025, the company simultaneously released recovery wear, a hoodie blanket, and an eye mask.
Saiga NAKDUNLOP, which sells products and sponsors esports teams, is reportedly planning further expansion.
We look forward to seeing what kind of impact this passion and ambition for global competition will have on the future esports industry.
Toward a New Start for DUNLOP
Caption
"BENTLEY 4 1/2 LITRE (1930 model), a British Masterpiece That Mastered Speed and Reliability."
A legendary sports car that competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the late 1920s.
Its 4.4L in-line four-cylinder engine boasted a maximum output of 110 horsepower and recorded a top speed of 160 km/h.
Known for its high durability and reliability, it supported four consecutive victories while equipped with DUNLOP tires.
It is a rare vintage car that embodies British craftsmanship.
(Translated from Japanese)
Caption
"MAZDA 787B (1991), The Legend of the First Japanese Car to Win Le Mans Overall."
A legendary machine that became the first Japanese car to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans overall.
Its 700 horsepower 4-rotor engine, the R26B, and DUNLOP tires conquered the ultimate endurance battle, astonishing the world.
Along with its vivid coloring, it is a running legend whose story continues to be told today.
(Translated from Japanese)
A Double Satoru Talk Show was also held at the venue, featuring Satoru Yamamoto, President and Representative Director of DUNLOP, and Satoru Nakajima, General Manager and a pioneer of Japanese F1 racing.
Nakajima spoke about his enthusiasm for the coming year.
Furthermore, a Gran Turismo experience booth was set up, and Fujii Yodan (@MTNRFG) was the first to try out the drive.
Surrounded by DUNLOP executives, he demonstrated a well-balanced driving style, which included a dramatic spin, followed by a quick recovery and safe driving.
Fujii: I felt that my existence was insignificant compared to the 130-year history of DUNLOP.
(Translated from Japanese)
