FIA Accepts Michelin WRC Tyre Supply Bid

On September 14 Michelin gave confirmation that the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has accepted Michelin’s application to supply tyres for the World Rally Championship from 2011 onwards. Michelin will thus return to the championship following a six year absence and supply its partners with Michelin brand rally tyres. The French manufacturer chose to apply for WRC tyre supply following the FIA’s decision to open the championship to more than one tyre manufacturer and by the likelihood of a change in regulations.

Commenting on the acceptance of its application, Michelin says racing offers its teams the “opportunity to validate their technological innovations in the most extreme conditions of use.” These innovations, Michelin adds, will then be transferred to street tyres, “thereby helping to improve the performance balance and lower the environmental impact of Michelin’s products.” The tyre maker also states that participation in motorsports provides a “powerful incentive” to continue its drive towards sustainable mobility, and for this reason Michelin is supporting the FIA “in its commitment to integrating a more responsible vision of rallying”, a commitment that begins in 2012 and involves reducing the number of tyres used in races.