Notice of

2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders

and

Proxy Statement

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

1144 East Market Street

Akron, Ohio 44316-0001

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT

Please vote. Most shareholders may vote by Internet or telephone as well as by mail.

Please refer to your proxy card or page     of the Proxy Statement for information on how

to vote by Internet or telephone. If you choose to vote by mail, please complete,

date and sign your proxy card and promptly return it in the enclosed envelope.

March [3], 2006

Dear Shareholders:

   You are cordially invited to attend Goodyear’s 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will be held at the Goodyear Theater, 1201 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio, at 9:00 A.M., Akron Time, on Tuesday, April 11, 2006. During the meeting, we will discuss each item of business described in this Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Statement, and give a report on matters of current interest to our shareholders.

   This booklet includes the Notice of Annual Meeting as well as the Proxy Statement, which provides information about Goodyear and describes the business we will conduct at the meeting.

   We hope you will be able to attend the meeting. Whether or not you plan to attend, it is important that you vote via the Internet, by telephone or by completing, dating, signing and promptly returning your proxy card. This will ensure that your shares will be represented at the meeting. If you attend and decide to vote in person, you may revoke your proxy. Remember, your vote is important!

CONTENTS

NOTICE OF THE

2006 ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

TO BE HELD ON April 11, 2006

To The Shareholders:

      The 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, an Ohio corporation, will be held at the Goodyear Theater (in the Company’s Principal Office Complex), 1201 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio, on Tuesday, April 11, 2006 at 9:00 A.M., Akron Time, for the following purposes:

      The Board of Directors fixed the close of business on February 16, 2006 as the record date for determining shareholders entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the 2006 Annual Meeting. Only holders of record of Goodyear Common Stock at the close of February 16, 2006 will be entitled to vote at the 2006 Annual Meeting and adjournments, if any, thereof.

March [3], 2006

By order of the Board of Directors:

C. Thomas Harvie, Secretary

Please complete, date and sign your Proxy and return it promptly in the enclosed envelope,

or vote via the Internet or by telephone.

PROXY STATEMENT

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

GENERAL INFORMATION

    This Proxy Statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, an Ohio corporation (“Goodyear”, “Company” or “we” or “us”), to be voted at the annual meeting of shareholders to be held April 11, 2006 (the “Annual Meeting”), and at any adjournments thereof, for the purposes set forth in the accompanying notice.

   Goodyear’s executive offices are located at 1144 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44316-0001. Our telephone number is 330-796-2121.

   Our Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended December 31, 2005 is enclosed with this Proxy Statement. The Annual Report is not considered part of the proxy solicitation materials. The approximate date on which this Proxy Statement and the related materials are first being sent to shareholders is March [3], 2006.

   Shares Voting. Holders of shares of the Common Stock, without par value, of Goodyear (the “Common Stock”) at the close of business on February 16, 2006 (the “record date”) are entitled to notice of, and to vote the shares of Common Stock they hold on the record date at, the Annual Meeting. As of the close of business on the record date, there were                      shares of Common Stock outstanding and entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. Each share of Common Stock is entitled to one vote.

   Quorum. In order for any business to be conducted, holders of at least a majority of shares entitled to vote must be represented at the meeting, either in person or by proxy.

   Adjourned Meeting. The holders of a majority of shares represented at the meeting, whether or not a quorum is present, may adjourn the meeting. If the time and place of the adjourned meeting is announced at the time adjournment is taken, no other notice need be given.

   Vote Required. Except for the management proposal to amend Goodyear’s Amended Articles of Incorporation, which requires the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the shares of Common Stock outstanding to be adopted, the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the shares of Common Stock outstanding on the record date is required for any management or shareholder proposal to be adopted at the Annual Meeting. In the election of directors, the five candidates receiving the most votes will be elected.

   Abstentions, “withheld” votes and “broker non-votes” do not affect the election of directors and have the same effect as votes against any proposal voted upon by shareholders.

   Cumulative Voting For Directors. In the voting for directors, you have the right to vote cumulatively for candidates nominated prior to the voting. In voting cumulatively for Class III, you may (a) give one candidate the number of votes equal to three times the number of shares of Common Stock you are entitled to vote, or (b) distribute your votes among the three candidates as desired. With respect to Class II directors, you may (a) give one candidate the number of votes equal to two times the number of shares of Common Stock you are entitled to vote, or (b) distribute your votes among the two candidates as desired.

   Voting Of Proxy. Three Goodyear directors, Messrs. Keegan and Weidemeyer and Ms. Morrison, have been designated as proxies to vote (or withhold from voting) shares of Common Stock in accordance with your instructions. You may give your instructions using the accompanying proxy card, via the Internet or by telephone.

   Your shares will be voted for the five nominees identified at page 7, unless your instructions are to withhold your vote from any one or more of the nominees or to vote cumulatively for one or more of the nominees for election as Class III or Class II director. The proxies may cumulatively vote your shares if they consider it appropriate, except to the extent you expressly withhold authority to cumulate votes as to a nominee.

   Your Board of Directors anticipates that all of the nominees named will be available for election. In the event an unexpected vacancy occurs, your proxy may be voted for the election of a new nominee designated by the Board of Directors.

   Proxies received and not revoked prior to the Annual Meeting will be voted in favor of the proposals of the Board of Directors to amend the Company’s Code of Regulations to provide for the annual election of directors (Proxy Item 2), to amend the Company’s Amended Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of common stock (Proxy Item 3), to ratify the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as

   Voting Shares Held in Street Name. If your shares are held in a stock brokerage account or by a bank or other nominee, you are considered the beneficial owner of shares held in “street name,” and these proxy materials are being forwarded to you by your broker, bank or nominee who is considered the shareholder of record with respect to those shares. As the beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker, bank or nominee on how to vote and are also invited to attend the Annual Meeting. Your broker, bank or nominee has enclosed a voting instruction card for you to use in directing the broker, bank or nominee regarding how to vote your shares. If you do not return the voting instruction card, the broker or other nominee will determine if it has the discretionary authority to vote on the particular matter. Under applicable rules, brokers have the discretion to vote on routine matters, such as the election of directors (Proxy Item 1), the proposed amendment to the Code of Regulations (Proxy Item 2), the proposed amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation (Proxy Item 3) and the ratification of the selection of accounting firms (Proxy Item 4), but do not have discretion to vote on non-routine matters, such as the shareholder proposal (Proxy Item 5). If you do not provide voting instructions to your broker, your shares will not be voted on any proposal on which your broker does not have discretionary authority (a broker non-vote). Broker non-votes will have no effect on the election of Directors, but will have the same effect as a vote against the other proposals.

   Confidentiality. Your vote will be confidential except (a) as may be required by law, (b) as may be necessary for Goodyear to assert or defend claims, (c) in the case of a contested election of director(s), or (d) at your express request.

   Revocability Of Proxy. You may revoke or revise your proxy (whether given by mail, via the Internet or by telephone) by the delivery of a later proxy or by giving notice to Goodyear in writing or in open meeting. Your proxy revocation or revision will not affect any vote previously taken. If you hold your shares in “street name” please refer to the information forwarded by your broker, bank or nominee who is considered the shareholder of record for procedures on revoking or changing your proxy.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE PRINCIPLES AND BOARD MATTERS

    Goodyear is committed to having sound corporate governance principles. Having such principles is essential to running Goodyear’s business efficiently and to maintaining Goodyear’s integrity in the marketplace. Goodyear’s Corporate Governance Guidelines, Business Conduct Manual, Board of Directors and Executive Officers Conflicts of Interest Policy and charters for each of the Audit, Compensation, Corporate Responsibility and Compliance, Finance, and Governance Committees are available at http://www.goodyear.com/ investor/ investor governance.html. Please note, however, that information contained on the website is not incorporated by reference in this proxy statement or considered to be a part of this document. A copy of the committee charters and corporate governance policies may also be obtained upon request to the Goodyear Investor Relations Department.

Board Independence

   The Board has determined that nine of the current directors are independent within the meaning of Goodyear’s independence standards, which are based on the criteria established by the New York Stock Exchange and are attached to this proxy statement as Exhibit A. Mr. Keegan, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer is not considered independent. In addition, in light of his ongoing relationship with the United Steelworkers (the “USW”), the Board has not determined Mr. Wessel to be independent. Further, the Board expects that Mr. Wessel will recuse himself from discussions and deliberations regarding Goodyear’s relationship with the USW.

Board Structure and Committee Composition

   As of the date of this proxy statement, Goodyear’s Board has 11 directors classified into three classes and the following five committees: (1) Audit, (2) Compensation, (3) Corporate Responsibility and Compliance, (4) Finance, and (5) Governance. The current membership and the function of each of the committees are described below. Each of the committees operates under a written charter adopted by the Board. All of the committee charters are available on Goodyear’s website at http://www.goodyear.com/ investor/ investor governance.html. During the 2005 fiscal year, the Board held 11 meetings. Each director attended at least 75% of all Board and applicable Committee meetings. Directors are encouraged to attend annual meetings of Goodyear shareholders. Six directors attended the last annual meeting of shareholders. As described on Goodyear’s website at http://www.goodyear.com/ investor/ investor contact brd.html, shareholders may communicate with the Board or any of the Directors (including, the Lead Director or the Non-Management Directors as a group) by sending correspondence to the Office of the Secretary, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, 1144 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44316-0001. All communications will be compiled by the Secretary and submitted to the Board or the individual Directors on a periodic basis.

X = Committee member; * = Chair; (1) Mr. Wessel has been a director since December 6, 2005.

Audit Committee

   The Audit Committee assists the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities for oversight of the integrity of Goodyear’s financial statements, Goodyear’s compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to financial reporting, the independent accountants’ qualifications and independence and the performance of Goodyear’s internal auditors and independent accountants. Among other things, the Audit Committee prepares the Audit Committee report for inclusion in the annual proxy statement; annually reviews the Audit Committee charter and the committee’s performance; appoints, evaluates and determines the compensation of Goodyear’s independent accountants; reviews and approves the scope of the annual audit plan; reviews and pre-approves all auditing services and permitted non-audit services (and related fees) to be performed by the independent accountants; oversees investigations into complaints concerning financial matters; and reviews policies and guidelines with respect to risk assessment and risk management, including Goodyear’s major financial risk exposures. The Audit Committee works closely with management as well as Goodyear’s independent accountants. The Audit Committee has the authority to obtain advice and assistance from, and receive appropriate funding from Goodyear for, outside legal, accounting or other advisors as the Audit Committee deems necessary to carry out its duties. The Board has determined that each member of the Audit Committee is independent and each of Messrs. Boland, Breen, Forsee and Hudson is an audit committee financial expert. The report of the Audit Committee is included herein on page 26.

Compensation Committee

   The Compensation Committee discharges the responsibility of the Board of Directors relating to compensation practices and plans for Goodyear’s directors, executive officers and other key personnel. Among other things, the Compensation Committee prepares a report on executive compensation for inclusion in the annual proxy statement; reviews and approves the Company’s goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer; determines the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer; advises the Board of Directors regarding directors’ and officers’ compensation and management development and succession plans; and undertakes such other activities as may be delegated to it from time to time by the Board of Directors. The Compensation Committee also administers Goodyear’s Performance Plans, Performance Recognition Plan, and certain other compensation and benefit plans sponsored by Goodyear. The Board has determined that each member of the Compensation Committee is independent.

Committee on Corporate Responsibility and Compliance

   The Committee on Corporate Responsibility and Compliance reviews Goodyear’s legal compliance programs as well as its business conduct policies and practices and its policies and practices regarding its relationships with shareholders, employees, customers, governmental agencies and the general public. The Committee may also recommend appropriate new policies to the Board of Directors.

Finance Committee

   The Finance Committee consults with management and makes recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding Goodyear’s capital structure, dividend policy, tax strategies, compliance with terms in financing arrangements, risk management strategies, banking arrangements and lines of credit and pension plan funding. The Finance Committee also reviews and consults with management regarding policies with respect to interest rate and foreign exchange risk, liquidity management, counter party risk, derivative usage, credit ratings, and investor relations activities.

Governance Committee

   The Governance Committee identifies, evaluates and recommends to the Board of Directors candidates for election to the Board of Directors. The Committee also develops and recommends appropriate corporate governance guidelines, recommends policies and standards for evaluating the overall effectiveness of the Board of Directors in the governance of Goodyear and undertakes such other activities as may be delegated to it from time to time by the Board of Directors. The Board has determined that each member of the Governance Committee is independent.

Consideration of Director Nominees

   The policy of the Governance Committee is to consider properly submitted shareholder nominations for candidates for membership on the Board as described below under “Identifying and Evaluating Nominees for Director.” In evaluating such nominations, the Governance Committee seeks to address the criteria described below under “Director Selection Guidelines” as well as any needs for particular expertise on the Board.

   Any shareholder desiring to submit a proposed candidate for consideration by the Governance Committee should send the name of such proposed candidate, together with biographical data and background information concerning the candidate, to: The Secretary, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, 1144 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44316-0001.

Director Selection Guidelines

   The Board of Directors has approved Director Selection Guidelines that apply to prospective Board members. Under these criteria, members of the Board should have a reputation for high moral character, integrity and sound judgment, substantial business expertise, financial literacy, achievement in his or her chosen field, should have adequate time to devote to Goodyear, and should have the ability to effectively serve several years prior to retirement at age 70. A person’s particular expertise and ability to satisfy Goodyear’s independence standards and those of the New York Stock Exchange may also be evaluated. Each Director must have the ability to fully represent Goodyear’s diverse constituencies.

Identifying and Evaluating Nominees for Director

   The Governance Committee considers candidates for Board membership suggested by its members and other Board members, as well as management and shareholders. The Committee also retains third-party executive search firms to identify candidates. Mr. Wessel, who is proposed to be elected for the first time at the Annual Meeting, was identified and recommended by the United Steelworkers of America pursuant to its master labor agreement with Goodyear.

   Once a prospective nominee has been identified, the Committee makes an initial determination as to whether to conduct a full evaluation of the candidate. This initial determination is based on whatever information is provided to the Committee with the recommendation of the prospective candidate, as well as the Committee’s own knowledge of the prospective candidate, which may be supplemented by inquiries to the person making the recommendation or others. The preliminary determination is based primarily on the need for additional Board members and the likelihood that the prospective nominee can satisfy the Director Selection Guidelines described above. If the Committee determines, in consultation with the Chairman of the Board and other Board members as appropriate, that additional consideration is warranted, it may request a third-party search firm to gather additional information about the prospective nominee’s background and experience and to report its findings to the Committee. The Committee then evaluates the prospective nominee against the standards and qualifications set out in Goodyear’s Director Selection Guidelines.

   The Committee also considers such other relevant factors as it deems appropriate, including the current composition of the Board, the balance of management and independent directors, the need for Audit Committee expertise and the evaluations of other prospective nominees. In connection with this evaluation, the Committee determines whether to interview the prospective nominee, and if warranted, one or more members of the Committee, and others as appropriate, interview prospective nominees in person or by telephone. After completing this evaluation and interview, the Committee makes a recommendation to the full Board as to the persons who should be elected to the Board, and the Board makes its decision after considering the recommendation and report of the Committee.

Executive Sessions

   Non-management Directors meet regularly in executive sessions without management. An executive session is generally held in conjunction with each regularly scheduled Board meeting. Executive sessions are led by a “Lead Director,” who is elected by the Board. Mr. John G. Breen currently serves as the Lead Director.

DIRECTORS’ COMPENSATION

    Goodyear directors who are not officers or employees of Goodyear or any of its subsidiaries receive, as compensation for their services as a director, $17,500 per calendar quarter. The Presiding Director receives an additional $13,750 per calendar quarter. The chairperson of the Audit Committee receives an additional $3,750 per calendar quarter and the chairpersons of all other committees receive an additional $1,250 per calendar quarter. Any director who attends more than 24 board and committee meetings will receive $1,700 for each additional meeting attended ($1,000 if the meeting is attended by telephone). Travel and lodging expenses incurred in attending board and committee meetings are paid by Goodyear. A director who is also an officer or an employee of Goodyear or any of its subsidiaries does not receive additional compensation for his or her services as a director.

   Directors who are not current or former employees of Goodyear or its subsidiaries participate in the Outside Directors’ Equity Participation Plan (the “Directors’ Equity Plan”). The Directors’ Equity Plan is intended to further align the interests of directors with the interests of shareholders by making part of each director’s compensation dependent on the value and appreciation over time of the Common Stock.

   Under the Directors’ Equity Plan, on the first business day of each calendar quarter each eligible director who has been a director for the entire preceding calendar quarter will have $20,000 accrued to his or her plan account. Amounts accrued are converted into units equivalent in value to shares of Common Stock at the fair market value of the Common Stock on the accrual date. The units will receive dividend equivalents at the same rate as the Common Stock, which dividends will also be converted into units in the same manner. The Directors’ Equity Plan also permits each participant to annually elect to have 25%, 50%, 75% or 100% of his or her retainer and meeting fees deferred and converted into share equivalents on substantially the same basis.

   A participating director is entitled to benefits under the Directors’ Equity Plan after leaving the Board of Directors unless the Board of Directors elects to deny or reduce benefits. Benefits may not be denied or reduced if, prior to leaving the Board of Directors, the director either (i) attained the age of 70 with at least five years of Board service or (ii) attained the age of 65 with at least ten years of Board service. The units will be converted to a dollar value at the price of the Common Stock on the later of the first business day of the seventh month following the month during which the participant ceases to be a director and the fifth business day of the year next following the year during which the participant ceased to be a director. Such amounts earned and vested prior to January 1, 2005 will be paid in ten annual installments or, at the discretion of the Compensation Committee, in a lump sum or in fewer than ten installments beginning on the fifth business day following the conversion from units to a dollar value. Amounts earned and vested after December 31, 2004 will be paid out in a lump sum on the fifth business day following the conversion from units to dollar value. Amounts in Plan accounts will earn interest from the date converted to a dollar value until paid at a rate one percent higher than the prevailing yield on United States Treasury securities having a ten-year maturity on the conversion date.

   The units accrued to the accounts of the participating directors under the Directors’ Equity Plan at December 31, 2005 are set forth in the “Deferred Share Equivalent Units” column of the Beneficial Ownership of Directors and Management table on page 17.

   Goodyear also sponsors a Directors’ Charitable Award Program funded by life insurance policies owned by Goodyear on the lives of pairs of directors. Goodyear donates $1 million per director to one or more qualifying charitable organizations recommended by each director after both of the paired directors are deceased. Assuming current tax laws remain in effect, Goodyear will recover the cost of the program over time with the proceeds of the insurance policies purchased. Directors derive no financial benefit from the program. This program is not available to directors elected after October 1, 2005.

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

(Item 1 on your Proxy)

   The Board of Directors is classified into three classes of directors. At each annual meeting of shareholders, directors of one class are elected, on a rotating basis, to three year terms, to serve as the successors to the directors of the same class whose terms expire at that annual meeting. The terms of the current Class III Directors will expire at the Annual Meeting. The current terms of the Class II and Class I Directors will expire at the 2007 and 2008 annual meetings, respectively. In the event that the proposal to amend the Code of Regulations regarding the annual election of directors is approved by shareholders (see discussion at page 11), then beginning at the 2007 annual meeting of shareholders all directors will be elected to one year terms.

   Information concerning the five nominees is set forth on the following pages.

JAMES C. BOLAND

Vice Chairman of Cavaliers Operating Company, LLC

Mr. Boland was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Cavs/ Gund Arena Company (the Cleveland Cavaliers professional basketball team and Gund Arena) from 1998 to December 31, 2002. He became Vice Chairman of that organization on January 1, 2003, which, following a change in ownership, was renamed the Cavaliers Operating Company, LLC. Prior to his retirement from Ernst & Young in 1998, Mr. Boland served for 22 years as a partner of Ernst & Young in various roles including Vice Chairman and Regional Managing Partner, as well as a member of the firm’s Management Committee. Mr. Boland is a director of Invacare Corporation and The Sherwin-Williams Company.

Age: 66

Director since: December 18, 2002

STEVEN A. MINTER

Retired. Formerly President and Executive Director of The Cleveland Foundation, a community trust devoted to health, education, social services and civic and cultural affairs.

Mr. Minter was the President and Executive Director of The Cleveland Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, from January 1, 1984 to June 30, 2003, when he retired. Since September 1, 2003, Mr. Minter has served as a part-time Executive-in-Residence at Cleveland State University. Mr. Minter is a director of KeyCorp.

Age: 67

Director since: February 12, 1985

MICHAEL R. WESSEL

Executive Vice President of Downey McGrath Group

Mr. Wessel is an attorney with almost 30 years experience as a policy and international trade advisor in Washington, D.C. In 1977 as a staff assistant to Richard Gephardt, he advised government officials on a wide range of domestic and international issues, and in 1984 he was named legislative director. In 1989, he became the policy director and in 1991 he was named general counsel for the Congressman. Mr. Wessel also served as a key economic and trade policy advisor for Gephardt’s presidential campaigns in 1987-88 and 2003-04, as well as John Kerry’s campaign in 2004. He was a senior policy advisor for the Clinton/ Gore Transition Office in 1992 and 1993.

Age: 46

Director since: December 6, 2005

NOMINEES FOR DIRECTOR — CLASS II, One Year Terms Expiring in 2007

JOHN G. BREEN

Retired. Formerly Chairman of the Board of The Sherwin-Williams Company, a manufacturer of paints, coatings and related products.

Mr. Breen was the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of The Sherwin-Williams Company from January 15, 1979 to October 25, 1999, when he retired as Chief Executive Officer. He served as Chairman of the Board of The Sherwin-Williams Company until April 26, 2000, when he retired. He is also a director of The Stanley Works.

Age: 71

Director since: January 7, 1992

WILLIAM J. HUDSON, JR.

Retired. Formerly President and Chief Executive Officer and a Director of AMP, Incorporated, a global manufacturer of electrical and electronic components and assemblies.

Mr. Hudson was the President and Chief Executive Officer of AMP, Incorporated from January 1, 1993 to August 10, 1998. Mr. Hudson served as the Vice Chairman of AMP, Incorporated from August 10, 1998 to April 30, 1999. Mr. Hudson is a member of the Executive Committee of the United States Council for International Business.

Age: 71

Director since: November 7, 1995

CONTINUING DIRECTORS — CLASS II, Terms Expiring in 2007

ROBERT J. KEEGAN

Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President of Goodyear

Mr. Keegan joined Goodyear on October 1, 2000, and he was elected President and Chief Operating Officer and a Director of Goodyear on October 3, 2000 and President and Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2003. Mr. Keegan became Chairman of the Board effective July 1, 2003. Prior to joining Goodyear, Mr. Keegan was an Executive Vice President of Eastman Kodak Company. He held various marketing, financial and managerial posts at Eastman Kodak Company from 1972 through September 2000, except for a two year period beginning in 1995 when he was an Executive Vice President of Avery Dennison Corporation.

Age: 58

Director since: October 3, 2000

RODNEY O’NEAL

President and Chief Operating Officer, Delphi Corporation

Mr. O’Neal has served in various managerial positions at Delphi Corporation since 1999 and has served as the President and Chief Operating Officer since January 7, 2005, when he was also elected to Delphi’s Board of Directors. Mr. O’Neal also served in various managerial and engineering positions at General Motors Corporation from 1976 to 1999, including Vice President of General Motors and President of Delphi Interior Systems prior to Delphi’s separation from General Motors.

Age: 52

Director since: February 3, 2004

SHIRLEY D. PETERSON

Retired. Formerly partner in the law firm of Steptoe & Johnson LLP

Mrs. Peterson was President of Hood College from 1995-2000. From 1989 to 1993 she served in the U.S. Government, first appointed by the President as Assistant Attorney General in the Tax Division of the Department of Justice, then as Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service. She was also a partner in the law firm of Steptoe & Johnson LLP where she served a total of 22 years from 1969 to 1989 and from 1993 to 1994. Mrs. Peterson is also a director of AK Steel Corp., Champion Enterprises, Federal-Mogul Corp., Wolverine Worldwide Inc. and is an independent trustee for Scudder Mutual Funds.

Age: 64

Director since: April 13, 2004

GARY D. FORSEE

President and Chief Executive Officer, Sprint Nextel Corp.

Mr. Forsee has served as Sprint Nextel’s President and Chief Executive Officer since the merger of Sprint and Nextel in August 2005. Mr. Forsee previously served as Sprint Corp.’s Chief Executive Officer from March 2003 to August 2005 and as its Chairman of the Board from May 2003 to August 2005. Prior to joining Sprint, Mr. Forsee served as the Vice Chairman-Domestic Operations of BellSouth Corporation from December 2001 to February 2003, and held other managerial positions at BellSouth from September 1999 to December 2001. Prior to joining BellSouth, Mr. Forsee was President and Chief Executive Officer of Global One, a global telecommunications joint venture, from January 1998 to July 1999.

Age: 55

Director since: August 6, 2002

DENISE M. MORRISON

Senior Vice President, President Campbell USA Soup, Sauce and Beverage

Ms. Morrison has served as the President of the Campbell USA Soup, Sauce and Beverage division of The Campbell Soup Company since June 2005. From April 2003 to June 2005 she served as Campbell Soup’s President of Global Sales and Chief Customer Officer. She has been a Senior Vice President of Campbell Soup since April 2003. Prior to joining Campbell Soup, Ms. Morrison served in various managerial positions at Kraft Foods, including as Executive Vice President/ General Manager of the Snacks Division from October 2001 to March 2003 and the Confections Division from January 2001 to September 2001. Ms. Morrison also served in various managerial positions at Nabisco Inc. from 1995 to 2000 and at Nestle USA from 1984 to 1995.

Age: 52

Director since: February 23, 2005

THOMAS H. WEIDEMEYER

Retired. Formerly Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of United Parcel Service, Inc.

Until his retirement in February 2004, Mr. Weidemeyer served as Director, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of United Parcel Service, Inc., the world’s largest transportation company, since January 2001, and President of UPS Airlines since June 1994. Mr. Weidemeyer became Manager of the Americas International Operation in 1989, and in that capacity directed the development of the UPS delivery network throughout Central and South America. In 1990, Mr. Weidemeyer became Vice President and Airline Manager of UPS Airlines and in 1994 was elected its President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Weidemeyer became Manager of the Air Group and a member of the Management Committee that same year. In 1998 he was elected as a Director and he became Chief Operating Officer of United Parcel Service, Inc. in 2001. Mr. Weidemeyer is also a director of NRG Energy, Inc. and Waste Management, Inc.

Age: 58

Director since: December 9, 2004

PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO CODE OF REGULATIONS TO REQUIRE

ANNUAL ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

(Item 2 on your Proxy)

   The Board of Directors is submitting a proposal to shareholders to amend the Company’s Code of Regulations to eliminate the classified structure of the Board and allow for the annual election of the directors.

   The Company’s Code of Regulations currently provides that (i) the Board of Directors be divided into three classes; (ii) one of the three classes shall stand for re-election each year; and (iii) each class of directors shall hold office for a three-year term.

   The Board of Directors has adopted a resolution approving the submission to shareholders of an amendment to Sections 1 and 2 of Article II of the Code of Regulations that would declassify the Board of Directors and provide for the annual election of all directors. The form of this amendment, called the “Annual Election Amendment,” is attached as Exhibit B.

   Primarily as a result of prior shareholder votes on declassification proposals and continuing shareholder interest in the topic, the Board is submitting, and recommending that shareholders vote for, a binding declassification proposal to shareholders in the form of the Annual Election Amendment. If the Annual Election Amendment is approved by shareholders, then each director elected at this Annual Meeting will hold office for a one-year term until the 2007 Annual Meeting, subject to his or her earlier resignation, removal or death. In addition, the remaining directors will also stand for election at the 2007 Annual Meeting. For that reason, each of the Company’s directors not otherwise up for re-election at the 2007 Annual Meeting has agreed to shorten his or her existing term so that it concludes at the 2007 Annual Meeting, if the Annual Election Amendment is approved by shareholders. In addition, any director appointed by the Board of Directors to fill any newly created directorship or to fill a vacancy on the Board will hold office for a term ending at the next annual meeting. If the Annual Election Amendment is not approved by shareholders, the Board of Directors will remain classified, and the three Class III directors elected at the 2006 Annual Meeting will be elected for a three-year term expiring in 2009. All other directors will continue in office for their full three-year terms, subject to their earlier resignation, removal or death.

   The affirmative vote of at least a majority of the Company’s outstanding shares will be required for approval of the Annual Election Amendment. An abstention will have the same effect as a vote against the proposal.

   Your Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote FOR the proposal to amend Sections 1 and 2 of Article II of the Code of Regulations (Proxy Item 2).

PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO AMENDED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

(Item 3 on your Proxy)

   On February 14, 2006, the Board of Directors unanimously adopted resolutions approving a proposal to amend Article Fourth of Goodyear’s Amended Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized to be issued by Goodyear from 300,000,000 shares to 450,000,000 shares.

   The full text of the proposed amendment to Article Fourth of the Amended Articles of Incorporation is set forth in Exhibit C of this Proxy Statement.

   Goodyear is presently authorized to have issued and outstanding 350,000,000 shares, consisting of (a) 300,000,000 shares of common stock, without par value, and (b) 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, without par value, issuable in one or more series. The proposed amendment does not change the express terms of the common stock. No change in the express terms, or in the number of authorized shares of the preferred stock is proposed.

   On February 16, 2006, the record date for the 2006 annual meeting of shareholders, 195,678,668 shares of common stock were issued (of which 176,980,570 were outstanding and 18,698,098 were held as treasury shares). In addition, there were approximately 38,969,385 and 29,069,767 shares of common stock reserved for issuance under Goodyear’s stock based compensation plans and conversion of Goodyear’s $350 million of 4.00% convertible senior notes due June 15, 2034, respectively.

   The Board of Directors unanimously believes that the increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock is necessary in order to provide Goodyear with the flexibility to issue shares for general corporate purposes that may be identified in the future. As part of its strategic plan, Goodyear has previously disclosed that it may issue additional common stock. The Board considers it advisable to increase the authorized number of shares of common stock in order to enable Goodyear to take advantage of favorable opportunities in which an issuance of common stock might be appropriate without the expense and delay of calling a special shareholders’ meeting to vote on such issuance. In addition, an issuance of additional common stock could be made for other purposes including, without limitation, adopting additional stock based employee benefit plans or reserving additional shares for issuance under existing plans, raising capital through the issuance of debt or equity securities convertible or exercisable into shares of common stock or funding the acquisition of other companies. At the date of this Proxy Statement, Goodyear has no agreements, commitments or definitive plans with respect to the sale or issuance of the additional shares of common stock that would be authorized by the proposed amendment.

   Any newly authorized shares of common stock will have voting and other rights identical to those of the currently authorized shares of common stock. Holders of common stock are entitled to one vote per share on each matter voted upon by the shareholders. All shares of common stock are entitled to participate equally in dividends when declared and paid. Shareholders may cumulatively vote their shares of common stock in electing directors. Goodyear has the right to repurchase shares of its common stock.

   The authorization of the additional shares of common stock sought by this proposal would not have any immediate dilutive effect on the proportionate voting power or other rights of existing stockholders, but, to the extent that the additional authorized shares of common stock are issued in the future, they may decrease existing stockholders’ percentage equity ownership and, depending on the price at which they are issued, could be dilutive to existing stockholders and may have a negative effect on the market price of the common stock. Under the Amended Articles of Incorporation, stockholders do not have preemptive rights with respect to the additional shares of common stock being authorized, which means that current stockholders do not have a prior right to purchase any new issue of common stock in order to maintain their proportionate ownership of common stock.

   Although Goodyear has no present intention of taking the following actions, shares of authorized but unissued common stock could be used by the Board to discourage or make more difficult a change in control of Goodyear. For example, the issuance of new voting shares could be used to dilute the stock ownership of a person seeking control of Goodyear. Goodyear is not currently aware of any specific efforts to obtain control of the corporation.

   If this amendment is approved, no further action or authorization by Goodyear’s shareholders would be necessary prior to issuance of additional shares of common stock, except as may be required for a particular transaction or issuance by applicable law or by the rules of the New York Stock Exchange. Goodyear does not anticipate that it will seek authorization from stockholders for issuance of additional shares of common stock unless required to do so.

      “Resolved, that the Amended Articles of Incorporation of the Company be, and they hereby are, amended by adopting in its entirety the resolutions set forth at Exhibit C to the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on April 11, 2006.”

   To be adopted, the proposed amendment must receive the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the shares of common stock entitled to vote. Proxies received by the Board of Directors will be voted for the proposed amendment unless a contrary choice is specifically indicated. Abstentions and broker non-votes will have the same effect as a vote against the proposal.

   Your Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote FOR the adoption of the proposed amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation to increase the authorized number of shares of common stock to 450,000,000 shares (Proxy Item 3).

RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

(Item 4 on your Proxy)

   The Audit Committee of the Board has appointed PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (“PwC”) as independent accountants to audit Goodyear’s consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2006. During fiscal year 2005, PwC served as Goodyear’s independent accountants and also provided certain tax and other audit related services. See “Principal Accountant Fees and Services” on pages 25 and 26. Representatives of PwC are expected to attend the meeting, where they are expected to be available to respond to appropriate questions and, if they desire, to make a statement.

   The following resolution will be presented by your Board of Directors at the Annual Meeting:

      “RESOLVED, that the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as independent accountants for the Company for the year ending December 31, 2006 is hereby ratified.”

   In the event the appointment of PwC is not ratified by the shareholders, the adverse vote will be deemed to be an indication to the Audit Committee that it should consider selecting other independent accountants for 2006.

   Your Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote FOR ratification (Proxy Item 4).

SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL

(Item 5 on your Proxy)

The proposal set forth below has been submitted by a shareholder.

5 — Adopt Simple Majority Vote

   Victor Rossi, P.O. Box 249, Boonville, Calif. 95415 submitted this proposal.

75% yes-vote

   This topic won a 75% yes-vote average at 7 major companies in 2004. The Council of Institutional Investors www.cii.org formally recommends adoption of this proposal topic.

End Potential Frustration of the Shareholder Majority

   Our current rule allows a small minority to frustrate the will of our shareholder majority. For example, in requiring a 67% vote to make key changes at our company, if 66% vote yes and only 1% vote no — only 1% could force their will on the overwhelming 66% majority.

   It is particularly important for our company to have an approximate 51% requirement to make key changes particularly due to our board’s 2005 unfriendly response to a proposal for annual election of each director (which did not even require the 67% vote required by other governance changes at our company).

   Small wonder, then, that our company reported this in its May 2005 10-Q: ’The resolution, having failed to receive the affirmative note of at least a majority of the shares of Common Stock entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting, was not adopted.”

   The Corporate Library (TCL), an independent investment research firm in Portland, Maine responded to this ruse with: “We have long assigned Goodyear a low shareholder responsiveness rating; the board also ignored two previous poison pill proposals approved by a majority of the shares voted. We’ve now lowered the company’s responsiveness grade to F, and would lower it to even further if we could. The company’s recent Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 reporting requirements violations also suggest that our Board Effectiveness Rating of D is on target — this board poses a high risk to shareholder value.”

   The above practices show there is room for improvement and reinforce the reason to take one step forward now and adopt simply majority vote.

Adopt Simple Majority Vote Yes on 5

STATEMENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OPPOSING SHAREHOLDER PROPOSAL

ITEM 5

   The Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote against the proposal. Almost all shareholder votes at Goodyear are already determined by a majority vote of the outstanding shares. However, with respect to Goodyear’s Articles of Incorporation and Code of Regulations there are two actions which require a two-thirds vote of outstanding shares: an amendment to the Articles of Incorporation and the removal of a Director. Amending either of these provisions to reduce the voting threshold to a majority of the outstanding shares would require the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the outstanding shares. However, the Board believes that it is still appropriate to require a two-thirds vote for these two matters and therefore opposes this proposal.

   The proposal is confusing because it is unclear whether “simple majority vote” refers to a majority of the shares outstanding or a majority of votes cast. If the proponent intends the latter, then the Company would be unable to change the voting requirements with respect to either of these matters as the minimum vote required under Ohio law for amending either the Articles of Incorporation or Code of Regulations is a majority of the shares outstanding.

   Assuming that “simple majority votes” refers to a majority of the shares outstanding, the Board believes that any concerns regarding the two-thirds requirement for removal of a director have been effectively addressed by the Board’s proposal to provide for the annual election of directors (see “Proposed Amendment to Code of Regulations to Require Annual Election of Directors” at page 11). Assuming the annual election proposal is adopted, all directors will be elected to one-year terms beginning in 2007. Further, given that, under Ohio law, shareholders have the right to vote cumulatively for directors, elimination of the two-thirds removal requirement has the potential to frustrate the rights of a minority of shareholders that may have voted for the election of a particular director. With respect to amendments to the Articles of Incorporation, — which in general deal only with the composition of the Company’s capital structure — the two-thirds requirement ensures that key corporate decisions, such as a proposal to increase the number of authorized shares, have the wide support of shareholders.

   We also strongly take issue with the proponent’s criticism of certain of Goodyear’s corporate governance practices. Goodyear has an independent, active and effective Board of Directors committed to the highest quality corporate governance. In addition to continually updating its Corporate Governance Guidelines, committee charters and Board practices, the Board has enacted many governance enhancements. For example, within the past three years, the Board of Directors has:

   In sum, the Board believes that Goodyear’s few supermajority voting requirements promote the Board’s longstanding goal of providing effective governance and value protection for the long-term benefit of shareholders.

   Your Board of Directors recommends that shareholders vote AGAINST the adoption of the Shareholder Proposal (Proxy Item 5).

OTHER BUSINESS

    Your Board of Directors does not intend to bring any other business before the Annual Meeting and is not aware of any other business intended to be presented by any other person.

   After the conclusion of the matters described above, shareholders will have an opportunity to ask appropriate questions regarding Goodyear and its operations.

   If any other matters properly come before the Annual Meeting, your proxy will be voted by Messrs. Keegan and Weidemeyer and Ms. Morrison in such manner as they, in their discretion, deem appropriate.

BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OF COMMON STOCK

    The firms identified in the table below have reported that they beneficially owned at December 31, 2005 more than 5% of the outstanding shares of the Common Stock as follows:

   In addition, The Northern Trust Company, 50 South LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60675, has indicated that at the record date it held                      shares, or approximately      % of the outstanding shares, of Common Stock, including                      shares, or approximately      % of the outstanding shares, of Common Stock held as the trustee of three employee savings plans sponsored by Goodyear and certain subsidiaries.

   On the record date, each director and nominee, each person named in the Summary Compensation Table on page 18, and all directors and executive officers as a group, beneficially owned the number of shares of Common Stock set forth in the Beneficial Ownership of Directors and Management table below.

* Less than 1%

Notes:

EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMPENSATION

SUMMARY OF COMPENSATION

   The table below sets forth information regarding the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer of Goodyear and the persons who were, at December 31, 2005, the other four most highly compensated executive officers of Goodyear (the “Named Officers”) for services in all capacities to Goodyear and its subsidiaries during 2005, 2004 and 2003.

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE

Notes to Summary Compensation Table:

OPTION/ SAR GRANTS IN 2005

   The table below shows all grants of stock options and SARs during 2005 to the Named Officers. Ordinarily, Stock Options and SARs are granted annually in December of each year.

OPTION/ SAR GRANTS IN 2005

Notes to Option/ SAR Grants Table:

   The table below sets forth certain information regarding option and SAR exercises during 2005, and the value of options/ SARs held at December 31, 2005, by the Named Officers.

AGGREGATED OPTION/ SAR EXERCISES IN 2005 AND

DECEMBER 31, 2005 OPTION/ SAR VALUES

Note to Option/ SAR Exercises and Year-End Values Table:

LONG TERM INCENTIVE AWARDS

   During 2005, the Company did not make any long-term incentive plan awards to any Named Officer. Accordingly, the Long Term Incentive Plan awards table is omitted.

OTHER COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION

Performance Recognition Plan

   Approximately 695 key employees, including all executive officers of Goodyear, will participate in the Performance Recognition Plan of Goodyear (the “Performance Plan”) for plan year 2006. On December 6, 2005, the Compensation Committee selected the participants, established the respective target bonuses for non-officers, and, on [February      , 2006], approved the performance measurements and target bonuses for officers. Awards in respect of plan year 2006 will be made in 2007 based on each participant’s level of achievement of his or her goals, the Chief Executive Officer’s (or, in the case of participants who are not officers, other officers’ of Goodyear) evaluation of the extent of the participant’s contribution to Goodyear, and the Committee’s determination of the amount available for payment to the relevant group of participants. Awards, if any, are generally paid in cash, although executive officers may elect to defer all or a portion of their award in the form of cash or stock units. If deferred in the form of stock units, the Company will match 20% of the amount deferred. The stock units are converted to shares of common stock and paid to the participant on the first business day of the third year following the end of the plan year under which the award was earned. Target bonuses under the Performance Plan have been established for calendar year 2006 as follows: Mr. Keegan, $          ; Mr. Kramer, $          ; Mr. Rich, $          ; Mr. Harvie, $          ; and Mr. Gingo, $ and all participants (695 persons as a group), approximately $ million.

Executive Performance Plan

   On December 1, 2003, the Compensation Committee established the Executive Performance Plan (the “EP Plan”). The purpose of the EP Plan is to provide long-term incentive compensation opportunities to attract, retain and reward key personnel and to motivate key personnel to achieve business objectives. Upon the attainment of performance goals established by the Committee, participants will be eligible to receive a cash award at the end of the performance period subject to adjustment and approval by the Committee. Grants under the EP Plan have a three year performance period and payment on each unit may range between $0 and $200,

Savings Plan

   Goodyear sponsors the Employee Savings Plan for Salaried Employees (the “Savings Plan”). An eligible employee, including officers, may contribute 1% to 50% of his or her compensation to the Savings Plan, subject to an annual contribution ceiling ($15,000 in 2006). Savings Plan participants who are age 50 or older and contributing at the maximum plan limits or at the annual contribution ceiling are entitled to make “catch-up” contributions annually up to a specified amount ($5,000 in 2006). Contributions to the Savings Plan are not included in the current taxable income of the employee pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Employee contributions are invested, at the direction of the participant, in any one or more of the fifteen available funds and/or in mutual funds under a self directed account.

   Prior to January 1, 2003, Goodyear matched at a 50% rate each dollar contributed by a participating employee up to a maximum of the lesser of (i) 6% of the participant’s annual compensation or (ii) legally imposed limits. Goodyear contributions were invested by the Savings Plan trustee in shares of Common Stock. Goodyear suspended the matching program effective January 1, 2003.

   Eligible employees hired after January 1, 2005 will not participate in the pension plan described below, but will receive company contributions to their Savings Plan accounts in an amount equal to 5% of compensation up to the Social Security wage base ($94,200 in 2006), plus 11.2% of compensation in excess of the wage base. The maximum company contribution for any individual in 2006 is $18,800.

Severance Plan

   The Goodyear Employee Severance Plan (the “Severance Plan”), adopted on February 14, 1989, provides that, if a full-time salaried employee of Goodyear or any of the domestic subsidiaries (who participates in the Salaried Pension Plan) with at least one year of service is involuntarily terminated (as defined in the Severance Plan) within two years following a change in control, the employee is entitled to severance pay, either in a lump sum or, at the employee’s election, on a regular salary payroll interval basis.

   The severance pay will equal the sum of (a) two weeks’ pay for each full year of service with Goodyear and its subsidiaries and (b) one month’s pay for each $12,000 of total annual compensation (the base salary rate in effect at the date of termination, plus all incentive compensation received during the twelve months prior to his or her separation). Severance pay may not exceed two times the employee’s total annual compensation.

   In addition, medical benefits and basic life insurance coverage will be provided to each employee on the same basis as in effect prior to his or her separation for a period of weeks equal to the number of weeks of severance pay. A change in control is deemed to occur upon the acquisition of 35% or more of the Common Stock by any “acquiring person” or any change in the composition of the Board of Directors of Goodyear with the effect that a majority of the directors are not “continuing directors.”

   If the Named Officers had been involuntarily terminated as of December 31, 2005 (following a change in control), the amount of severance pay due would have been: Mr. Keegan $8,344,226; Mr. Kramer $2,236,620; Mr. Rich $2,360,560; Mr. Harvie $2,326,942; Mr. Gingo $1,935,600.

   The Company also follows general guidelines for providing severance benefits to executive officers of the Company whose employment terminates prior to retirement, and under appropriate circumstances. Executive officers eligible for such benefits typically receive a separation allowance based on individual circumstances, including length of service, in an amount generally equivalent to 6 to 18 months of base salary plus an amount based on the individual’s target bonus then in effect over an equivalent period. The separation allowance may be paid in a single lump sum or in installments. The Company may also provide limited outplacement and personal financial planning services to eligible executive officers following their termination.

Deferred Compensation Plan

   Goodyear’s Deferred Compensation Plan for Executives provides that an eligible employee may elect to defer all or a portion of his or her Performance Plan award and/or annual salary by making a timely deferral election.

RETIREMENT BENEFITS

   Goodyear maintains a Salaried Pension Plan (the “Pension Plan”), a defined benefit plan qualified under the Code, in which many salaried employees, including most executive officers, hired prior to January 1, 2005 participate. The Pension Plan permits any eligible employee to make monthly optional contributions of 1% of the first $47,100 of compensation and 2% on compensation between $47,100 and $220,000 in 2006. The Code limits the maximum amount of earnings that may be used in calculating benefits under the Pension Plan, which limit is $220,000 for 2006. The Pension Plan provides benefits to participants who have at least five years of service upon any termination of employment. Under the Pension Plan, benefits payable to a participant who retires prior to age 65 are subject to a reduction for each full month of retirement before age 65.

   Goodyear also maintains a Supplementary Pension Plan (the “Supplementary Plan”), a non-qualified plan partially funded by a Rabbi Trust which provides additional retirement benefits to certain officers. The Supplementary Plan provides pension benefits to participants who have at least 30 years of service or have ten years of service and are age 55 or older. Under the Supplementary Plan, benefits payable to a participant who retires prior to age 62 are subject to a reduction for each month of retirement before age 62.

   Participants may elect a lump sum payment of benefits under the Supplementary Plan (the “Pension Plans”) for benefits accrued prior to January 1, 2005, subject to the approval of the Company’s ERISA appeals committee in respect of benefits under the Supplementary Plan. For benefits accrued after January 1, 2005, a lump sum will be the default form of payment; however, these benefits cannot be distributed prior to six months after separation of service.

   Goodyear maintains a non-qualified unfunded Excess Benefit Plan which pays an additional pension benefit over that paid under the Pension Plan if a participant does not meet the eligibility requirements of the Supplementary Plan. The additional benefit is equal to the amount a participant would have received from the Pension Plan but does not because of the limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. These limitations set a maximum level of compensation that can be considered in determining benefits under the Pension Plan (currently $220,000) and a maximum allowable annual benefit ($175,000 for 2006). Distribution of amounts earned and vested prior to January 1, 2005 will be paid out in the same manner as the Pension Plan unless otherwise elected by the participant at least 12 months prior to termination or severance. Distributions for amounts earned or vested after December 31, 2005 will be paid out in a lump sum six months after termination of service.

   The table below shows estimated annual benefits payable at selected earnings levels assuming retirement on July 1, 2006 at age 65 after selected periods of service. The amounts shown in the table include the estimated benefits provided under both the Pension Plan and the Supplementary Plan.

   The pension benefit amounts shown include the maximum benefits obtainable and assume payments are made on a five year certain and life annuity basis and are not subject to any deduction for social security or any other offsets. Pension benefits are based on the retiree’s highest average annual earnings, consisting of salary and cash payments under the Performance Recognition Plan, for any five calendar years out of the ten years immediately preceding his or her retirement (assuming full participation in the contributory feature of the Pension Plan).

PENSION PLAN TABLE

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

      Mr. Keegan and Goodyear entered into an agreement, dated September 11, 2000, which provided, among other things, for the employment of Mr. Keegan as President and Chief Operating Officer. The agreement provided for an initial salary of $800,000. Mr. Keegan was also granted a stock option for 250,000 shares of common stock on October 3, 2000, at an exercise price of $18.25 per share and 50,000 shares of restricted stock, the restrictions on which lapsed on October 3, 2002. The agreement also established Mr. Keegan’s participation in the Company’s Performance Recognition Plan as well as Goodyear’s equity-based incentive compensation programs.

      Mr. Keegan will also receive a total pension benefit equal to what he would have earned under the Pension Plans if his service with Goodyear were equal to the total of his service with Goodyear and Eastman Kodak Company. He also receives the same non-salary benefits generally made available to Goodyear executive officers.

      Mr. Keegan’s agreement was supplemented on February 3, 2004 to provide for the payment of severance compensation to Mr. Keegan upon the termination of his employment with Goodyear under the circumstances outlined in the supplemental agreement. If paid, the severance compensation would consist of (i) two times the sum of Mr. Keegan’s annual base salary and target bonus then in effect, plus (ii) the pro rata portion of Mr. Keegan’s target bonus for the then current fiscal year. In the event that severance compensation is paid to Mr. Keegan under the agreement, the agreement restricts Mr. Keegan from participating in any business that competes with Goodyear for a period of two years. The term of the supplemental agreement is from February 3, 2004 to February 28, 2009. If Mr. Keegan’s employment was terminated as of December 31, 2005 and the supplemental agreement was in effect at that time, the amount of severance due Mr. Keegan would have been $6,700,000. This amount would not be payable if Mr. Keegan received benefits under the previously described Severance Plan.

OTHER MATTERS

      During 2005, Goodyear and its subsidiaries, in the ordinary course of their business and at competitive prices and terms, made sales to or purchases from, or engaged in other transactions with, corporations of which certain Goodyear non-employee directors are executive officers and/or directors. Goodyear does not consider the transactions to be material to its business and believes such transactions were not material in relation to the business of such other corporations or the interests of the directors concerned.

SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

      Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires directors and officers to file reports of ownership and changes in ownership in Goodyear’s equity securities with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the New York Stock Exchange and Goodyear. Due to an administrative oversight on the part of the Company, several Form 4’s related to award of units were not timely filed. The following filings were made late: (1) the award of units to our directors on January 3, 2005 pursuant to the Company’s Outside Directors’ Equity Participation Plan, (2) the settlement of performance equity units granted to 4 of our officers under the 1989 Goodyear Performance and Equity Incentive Plan, the payment of which had been deferred until January 14, 2005, and (3) the settlement of stock units awarded to 4 of our officers on March 31, 2002 under the Performance Recognition Plan, the payment of which had been deferred until January 2005. No late filings were made in connection with purchase or sale transactions initiated by our officers or directors themselves.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

      The Audit Committee has appointed PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as Goodyear’s independent accountants for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2006. Representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers are expected to be present at the annual meeting and will have the opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so and are expected to be available to respond to appropriate questions.

Fees Incurred by Goodyear for PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

   The following table presents fees and expenses for audit services rendered by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP for the audit of Goodyear’s annual Financial Statements for fiscal 2005 and 2004 and fees and expenses for other services rendered by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP during these periods.

   All audit, audit related services, tax services and other services were pre-approved by the Audit Committee, which concluded that the provision of such services by PricewaterhouseCoopers was compatible with the maintenance of that firm’s independence in the conduct of its auditing functions. The Audit Committee’s Pre-Approval Policy provides for pre-approval of audit, audit-related, tax services and all other fees on an annual basis and, in addition, individual engagements anticipated to exceed pre-established thresholds must be

REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE

   Management has the primary responsibility for the integrity of Goodyear’s financial information and the financial reporting process, including the system of internal control over financial reporting. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Goodyear’s independent registered public accounting firm, is responsible for conducting independent audits of Goodyear’s financial statements and management’s assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and expressing an opinion on the financial statements and management’s assessment based upon those audits. The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing the conduct of these activities by management and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

   As part of its oversight responsibility, the Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the audited financial statements, the adequacy of financial controls and the effectiveness of Goodyear’s internal control over financial reporting with management and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. The Audit Committee also has discussed with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61 (Communication with Audit Committees) and PCAOB Auditing Standard No. 2 (An Audit of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting Performed in Conjunction with an Audit of Financial Statements). The Audit Committee has received the written disclosures and the letter from PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP required by Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1 (Independence Discussions with Audit Committees) and has discussed with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP their independence from Goodyear.

   Based on the review and discussions with management and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP referred to above, the Audit Committee has recommended to the Board of Directors that Goodyear publish the consolidated financial statements of Goodyear and subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2005 in Goodyear’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 and in its 2005 Annual Report to Shareholders.

The Audit Committee

COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

[As of the date of the filing of this Preliminary Proxy Statement, the

Compensation Committee had not yet issued its report on Executive Compensation.

The report will be included in the Definitive Proxy Statement.]

The Compensation Committee

John G. Breen, Chairman

PERFORMANCE GRAPH

    The graph below compares the cumulative total shareholder returns of Goodyear Common Stock, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Composite Stock Index (the “S&P 500”) and the Dow Jones Auto Parts Index (the “Dow Auto Parts”) at each December 31 during the period beginning December 31, 2000 and ending December 31, 2005. The graph assumes the investment of $100 on December 31, 2000 in Goodyear Common Stock, in the S&P 500 and in the Dow Auto Parts. Total shareholder return was calculated on the basis that in each case all dividends were reinvested.

COMPARISON OF FIVE YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN

Goodyear Common Stock, S&P 500 and Dow Auto Parts

MISCELLANEOUS

SUBMISSION OF SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS

   If a shareholder desires to have a proposal included in the proxy materials of the Board of Directors for the 2007 annual meeting of shareholders, such proposal shall conform to the applicable proxy rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission concerning the submission and content of proposals and must be received by Goodyear prior to the close of business on                     , 2006. In addition, if a shareholder intends to present a proposal at Goodyear’s 2007 annual meeting without the inclusion of such proposal in Goodyear’s proxy materials and written notice of such proposal is not received by Goodyear on or before                     , 2007, proxies solicited by the Board of Directors for the 2007 annual meeting will confer discretionary authority to vote on such proposal if presented at the meeting. Shareholder proposals should be sent to the executive offices of Goodyear, 1144 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44316-0001, Attention: Office of the Secretary. Goodyear reserves the right to reject, rule out of order, or take other appropriate action with respect to any proposal that does not comply with these and other applicable requirements.

SAVINGS PLAN SHARES

   A separate “Confidential Voting Instructions” card is being sent to each employee or former employee participating in Goodyear’s employee savings plans. Shares of Common Stock held in the trust for these plans will be voted by the trustee as instructed by the plan participants. Shares held in the trust for which voting instructions are not received will be voted by the trustee in the same proportion as it votes shares for which voting instructions were received from participants in the applicable savings plan.

INTERNET AND TELEPHONE VOTING

   You may vote your shares using the Internet by accessing the following web site:

http://www.goodyear.com/investor/investor proxy.html

or by making a toll-free telephone call within the United States of America or Canada using a touch-tone telephone to the following toll-free number:

1-877-779-8683

and, in each case, following the screen or voice instructions. You should have your proxy card available when you call or access the web site.

SHAREHOLDERS SHARING THE SAME ADDRESS

   Goodyear has adopted a procedure called “householding,” which has been approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Under this procedure, Goodyear is delivering only one copy of the annual report and proxy statement to multiple shareholders who share the same address and have the same last name, unless Goodyear has received contrary instructions from an affected shareholder. This procedure reduces Goodyear’s printing costs, mailing costs and fees. Shareholders who participate in householding will continue to receive separate proxy cards.

   Goodyear will deliver promptly upon written or oral request a separate copy of the annual report and the proxy statement to any shareholder at a shared address to which a single copy of either of those documents was delivered. To receive a separate copy of the annual report or proxy statement, you may write or call Goodyear’s Investor Relations Department at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, 1144 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44316-0001, Attention: Investor Relations, telephone (330) 796-3751. You may also access Goodyear’s annual report and proxy statement on the Investor Relations section of Goodyear’s website at www.goodyear.com.

   If you are a holder of record and would like to revoke your householding consent and receive a separate copy of the annual report or proxy statement in the future, please contact Automatic Data Processing, Inc. (“ADP”), either by calling toll free at (800) 542-1061 or by writing to ADP, Householding Department, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, New York 11717. You will be removed from the householding program within 30 days of receipt of the revocation of your consent.

   Any shareholders of record who share the same address and currently receive multiple copies of Goodyear’s annual report and proxy statement who wish to receive only one copy of these materials per household in the

   A number of brokerage firms have instituted householding. If you hold your shares in “street name,” please contact your bank, broker or other holder of record to request information about householding.

FORM 10-K

   GOODYEAR WILL MAIL WITHOUT CHARGE, UPON WRITTEN REQUEST, A COPY OF GOODYEAR’S ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL Year Ended December 31, 2005, INCLUDING THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SCHEDULES AND LIST OF EXHIBITS, AND ANY PARTICULAR EXHIBIT SPECIFICALLY REQUESTED. REQUESTS SHOULD BE SENT TO: THE GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY, 1144 EAST MARKET STREET, AKRON, OHIO 44316-0001, ATTN: INVESTOR RELATIONS. THE ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K IS ALSO AVAILABLE AT WWW.GOODYEAR.COM.

COSTS OF SOLICITATION

   The costs of soliciting proxies will be borne by Goodyear. Goodyear has retained Georgeson Shareholder Communications Inc., 17 State Street, New York, New York 10004, to assist in distributing proxy materials and soliciting proxies for an estimated fee of $12,500, plus reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses. Georgeson Shareholder Communications Inc. may solicit proxies from shareholders by mail, telephone, telex, telegram or personal call or visit. In addition, officers or other employees of Goodyear may, without additional compensation therefor, solicit proxies in person or by telephone or the Internet.

March [3], 2006

Exhibit A

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Director Independence Standards

    To be considered independent under the rules of the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (“NYSE”), the Board must determine that a Director does not have any direct or indirect material relationship with Goodyear, apart from his or her directorship. The Board has established the following guidelines to assist it in determining Director independence.

The Board will annually review commercial and charitable relationships of Directors. The criteria described above are not meant to be an exhaustive list of relationships or circumstances that would preclude independence. There may be other relationships or circumstances which, in the Board’s judgment, would not be deemed to be material and the Director will be deemed to be independent if, after taking into account all relevant facts and circumstances, the Board determines that the existence of such relationship or circumstance would not impair the Director’s exercise of independent judgment. The basis for such a determination will be disclosed in the Company’s annual proxy statement.

For the purposes of these independence standards:

Exhibit B

Amendment to Code of Regulations

Sections 1 and 2 of Article II of the Code of Regulations of the Company shall be amended in their entirety to read as follows:

ARTICLE II

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

      Section 1. Number and Classification; Authority. The Board of Directors shall be composed of eleven members and shall be divided into three classes (Class I, Class II and Class III), each class to consist of four directors unless the number of members of the Board of Directors or of any class is changed by action of the shareholders taken in accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio, the Articles of Incorporation and these Regulations or by a resolution adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office. The directors may, from time to time, increase or decrease the number of directors, provided that the directors shall not increase the number of directors to more than fifteen persons or decrease the number of directors to less than nine persons and, provided further, that the directors shall not decrease the number of directors in any class to fewer than three persons. Any director’s office that is created by an increase in the number of directors pursuant to action taken by the Board of Directors may be filled by the vote of a majority of the directors then in office. In the event of any increase in the number of directors of any class, any additional director elected to such class shall hold office for a term which shall coincide with the unexpired term of such class. No reduction in the number of directors by action taken by the shareholders or the directors shall, of itself, shorten the term or result in the removal of any incumbent director. Except where the law, the Articles of Incorporation or these Regulations require action to be authorized or taken by the shareholders, all of the authority of the Company shall be exercised by the directors.

      Section 2. Election of Directors; Term of Office. At each annual meeting of shareholders, or at a special meeting called for the purpose of electing directors, each successor to the directors of the class whose term shall expire in that year director shall be elected for a term of three one years and shall hold office until the third next annual meeting of shareholders following his or her election as a director and until his or her successor is elected and qualified, or until his or her earlier resignation, removal from office or death. At a meeting of shareholders at which directors of any class are to be elected, only persons nominated as candidates shall be eligible for election as directors and the candidates receiving the greatest number of votes shall be elected. A separate election shall be held for each class of directors at any meeting of shareholders at which a member of more than one class of directors is being elected. Directors elected at the first election for Class I directors shall hold office for a term of three years; directors elected at the first election for Class II directors shall hold office for a term of two years; and directors elected at the first election for Class III directors shall hold office for a term of one year; and in each instance such directors shall hold office until their successors are elected and qualified.

Note: New language is indicated by underlining. Language to be deleted is lined out.

Exhibit C

Text of Proposed Amendment to the Amended Articles of Incorporation

of the Company

RESOLVED, that The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company hereby adopts the following amendment to its Amended Articles of Incorporation and that the President, an Executive Vice President or a Senior Vice President and the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company are hereby authorized and directed to sign and file in the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Ohio a certificate containing a copy of the resolution adopting the amendment and a statement of the manner of its adoption:

The Amended Articles of Incorporation are hereby amended by striking out in its entirety the first paragraph of Article FOURTH and substituting in lieu thereof the following:

      FOURTH: The maximum number of shares which the Corporation is authorized to have outstanding is 500,000,000, consisting of 450,000,000 shares of Common Stock without par value (hereinafter referred to as “Common Stock”) and 50,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock without par value (hereinafter referred to as “Preferred Stock”).