Michelin open to F1 return if rules change
Michelin says it would be interested in a return to Formula 1 if the sport's technical regulations were changed.
The French tyre manufacturer has been out of grand prix racing since the end of 2006, and has been reluctant to get involved again unless it faces competition.
But in a hint that a comeback as a sole tyre supplier is not impossible, Michelin's motorsport director Pascal Couasnon says that if F1 has an overhaul then it could be tempted.
"We are open to it," he told Italian publication Autosprint. "But there are certain conditions.
"Formula 1 needs to change the technical regulations. The tyre must again be a technical object rather than a tool for a spectacular show."
He added: "We want 18-inch tyres that we will use in Formula E, and soon in other series.
"If Formula 1 takes our proposals into account, then we are prepared and we have a strong will to return.
"If things stay as they are, we are not interested. So we will submit our application, then it's up to (Bernie) Ecclestone and the FIA whether they accept or not."
New tyre characteristics
Couasnon also made it clear that Michelin would want a big change of philosophy about how tyres perform in F1.
"[They] should have a stable performance and grip level. It is not normal for drivers to say after a few laps 'I have to slow down to save the tyres'," he said. "This should not be.
"Today Formula 1 drivers cannot show their talent because the tyres do not allow it.
"This happens when there is only one manufacturer and no motivation to improve. But if there is a technically interesting rulebook, then you have to develop your best product even if you are the only supplier."
Share Or Save This Story
Alpine becomes Pramac's main partner in MotoGP
Liberty Media's $4bn MotoGP deal facing EU probe
Ocon wants answers to understand pace slump against Alpine team-mate
The NASCAR Trucks Chase is about The Big Three, but who else?
Andrea Stella: McLaren must help Oscar Piastri stop "thinking" about how to drive '26 F1 car
Gateway was a race of opportunity for drivers with several posting season-best results
Christian Rasmussen reunites with Era Motorsport for IMSA’s Indianapolis sprint round
F1 doesn't need to change its VSC rules despite Lando Norris' Spain loss
Why Lando Norris doesn’t buy George Russell’s driving style theory
How Kimi Antonelli is proving unbeatable, even when he's beaten
How Norris unfurled a surprising - and "unrepeatable" - Spanish GP pole lap
Subscribe and access Motorsport.com with your ad-blocker.
From Formula 1 to MotoGP we report straight from the paddock because we love our sport, just like you. In order to keep delivering our expert journalism, our website uses advertising. Still, we want to give you the opportunity to enjoy an ad-free and tracker-free website and to continue using your adblocker.
Top Comments