Michelin Could Return to F1 Next Year

Michelin is reportedly close to returning to Formula One, albeit not as a standard tyre supplier. Although the news remains unconfirmed, Autosport reported that the French tyre manufacturer is in “advanced negotiations with the FIA about the terms of a return for the first time since it quit at the end of 2006.” A formal announcement confirming Michelin’s role is expected this month, according to the reports.

Normally the sport requires that standard tyre suppliers go through an official FIA tender process however in this case, says Autosport, the governing body may allow “any qualified manufacturer in.” According to the reports, a potential Michelin return could see Bibendum compete against tyre manufacturers such as Hankook and Kumho who have also been linked with a possible move into F1.

Earlier this month Michelin managing partner Jean-Dominique Senard told Bloomberg the French company would consider returning to F1 if the sport could prove its environmental credentials. “We might consider returning but there are some very clear conditions,” Autosport quoted him as saying.

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