Bridgestone comment on Minardi situation

Brisgestone has released a statement regarding the confusion surrounding its negotiations with Minardi. The Faenza team had to run its Valencia test session this week on Avon tyres as it has yet to sign a deal with Bridgestone. Minardi ended its partnership with Michelin at the end of last year and has since been trying to close a deal with Bridgestone, but the manufacturer refused to supply tyres for the test as negotiations are ongoing.

"Following recent speculation regarding the supply of Bridgestone tyres to the Minardi Formula 1 team for the forthcoming 2003 FIA Formula One World Championship, Bridgestone Motorsport would like to clarify the situation," the statement read.

"Bridgestone received a request from the Minardi team regarding the supply of tyres for the forthcoming season in October 2002 and this request was carefully considered. During this time, Minardi continued to test with tyres supplied by Bridgestone's rival. Bridgestone subsequently explained its situation to the Minardi team."

"Following a second enquiry seen by Bridgestone in the New Year, Bridgestone agreed to reconsider Minardi's request and sent a proposal to the team for the supply of tyres for the 2003 season. Negotiations between the two parties are currently taking place."

"However, for legal and insurance reasons, until all formalities have been completed it will not be possible to supply Bridgestone tyres."

"Bridgestone is looking forward to a successful conclusion to the negotiations with Minardi."

Minardi boss Paul Stoddart said he will lodge an official complaint with the FIA and claims he has repeatedly tried to arrange a meeting with Bridgestone Director of Motorsport, Hiroshi Yasukawa, without success. Stoddart believes Bridgestone is in breach of the FIA regulations that tyre manufacturers have to supply up to half the teams if requested.