Al Speyer, Key Figure in Firestone’s Return to Open-Wheel Racing, Passes at 75
Al Speyer, a pivotal force in Firestone’s re-entry into open-wheel racing, passed away on Monday at the age of 75. A Long Island native, Speyer dedicated nearly 40 years to Firestone and its parent company, Bridgestone Americas, where he leveraged his mechanical engineering degree from Syracuse University to shape the brand’s motorsports strategy.
Speyer was instrumental in Firestone’s exclusive tire supply agreement with the Indy Lights series in 1990, which laid the groundwork for the brand’s involvement in the CART IndyCar Series in 1995 and the Indy Racing League in 1996. Under Speyer’s leadership, Firestone clinched its first CART championship in 1996, subsequently dominating the series and securing the first IRL championship in 1999, effectively sidelining former rival Goodyear.
When CART transitioned to Champ Car, Speyer continued to lead Firestone’s tire operations under Bridgestone, maintaining the company’s dual role as a supplier until the unification of the IndyCar series in 2008. His contributions culminated in his promotion to Executive Director of Motorsports for Bridgestone Americas in 2001, a position he held until his initial retirement in 2012.
Reflecting on his career, Speyer stated, “My time in motorsports has been a dream come true. I am thankful to all who supported me. I look forward to helping with the transition to my successor.”
Speyer briefly returned to motorsports in 2013 as COO of Don Panoz’s DeltaWing sports car program, further extending his legacy in the field. Firestone’s official statement expressed deep sorrow over his passing, highlighting his significant contributions that have left a lasting impact on the company’s racing heritage.
Speyer is survived by his wife, Jane, and their son, Erik. His legacy within the motorsports community will be remembered through Firestone’s enduring influence in racing.
