MICHELIN WANTS 'MORE EVEN SPLIT'
Last Updated: Wednesday, 20, July, 2005, 17:33
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Michelin says it would be happy for Bridgestone to supply more Formula 1 teams in 2006.
At present, seven of the ten F1 outfits run on Michelins, while only Ferrari, Jordan and Minardi use Bridgestones.
In a statement issued today, Michelin said that it had just turned down an approach from another team, and would actually prefer a ‘more even balance’ next season.
“An eighth team has now asked Michelin for a partnership agreement,” read the statement.
“Michelin is obviously delighted by the confidence this demonstrates, both in the positive appreciation of its products by its partners and also in the recognition of its policy of treating all its partners equally.
“However, this situation does not help the development of long-term competition between tyre manufacturers; a principle to which Michelin is firmly committed.
“Michelin is therefore completely open to allowing for a more balanced split of teams among tyre manufacturers, starting as early as the 2006 season.”
There has already been speculation that Red Bull Racing will move to Bridgestone tyres when it starts using Ferrari engines next season.
Teams flocked to Michelin in recent years after complaints that Bridgestone was favouring Ferrari to the detriment of its other customers.
Now Ferrari admits that the lack of other quick teams on Bridgestones is a problem, as the tyre company doesn't get the same quality and quantity of testing feedback as Michelin does.
The days of the Michelin-Bridgestone tyre war may be numbered anyway, as moves are afoot for F1 to switch to a single tyre supplier when the rules are revamped in 2008.