Looks like Czech billionaire Michal Strnad is in talks with Sinochem Holdings over the acquisition of the latter’s 14% stake in Pirelli.
If completed, the deal would reduce Sinochem’s ownership in the Italian tiremaker to approximately 20%. Based on current market valuation, the transaction is worth more than €1 billion (about USD1.14 billion).
The negotiations are ongoing and no final agreement has been reached yet; the deal also requires approval from China’s State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC). According to informed sources, the two sides have already begun discussing a basic pricing framework, including a premium, and the transaction could be finalized as early as the end of July. In recent years, Pirelli has promoted its Cyber Tyre smart tire technology, which incorporates sensors.
Due to concerns over data collection and potential national security implications, this technology has drawn scrutiny in the U.S. regarding the Chinese ownership background. Previously, the Italian government invoked its “golden power” mechanism to restrict Sinochem’s governance rights in Pirelli, including board representation.
Recently, Pirelli also restructured its management, appointing former CEO Marco Tronchetti Provera as executive chairman which was a move opposed by Sinochem. Should Strnad successfully acquire the stake, his entry as the controlling shareholder of Czech defense group CSG NV would further strengthen Pirelli’s European capital profile.
Following the news, Pirelli’s shares rose as much as 4.1% on the Milan Stock Exchange, bringing its year-to-date gain to 17%. Meanwhile, neither Strnad, Sinochem Holdings, nor Pirelli commented on the matter.
In case you were wondering, below is an overview of popular 2026 tyre series in Malaysia and their starting prices:
Pirelli Cinturato Rosso / P1: Starting around RM296 for 15-inch models, highly praised for everyday comfort, mileage, and wet grip.
Pirelli Scorpion Verde All Season: Prices range from RM494 (17-inch) to RM1,280+ (20-inch) for optimized rolling resistance and wet weather braking on SUVs.
Pirelli P Zero (PZ4/Race): Available from roughly RM924 to RM1,600+ depending on whether it includes Run-Flat (R-F) features, designed for maximum handling and performance.
Two-Wheelers (Diablo Rosso Sport): Popular for 14-inch to 17-inch bikes, with prices averaging between RM335 and RM592 depending on the scooter or motorcycle.
