Michelin: Return to Formula 1 imminent!

Last March 18th, casinoenligne.uk.com mentioned the announced withdrawal of Bridgestone as early as the end of this season.

Rumors were spreading rapidly, and the arrival of Korean manufacturers Kumho and Hankook was already being discussed.

Another piece of information was circulating, suggesting a possible approach from Michelin.

Today, the situation is clearer because the Clermont-Ferrand firm, which had left F1 at the end of 2006, is reportedly in advanced negotiations with the FIA.

The said agreement could position Michelin as a mere tire supplier, without the evocative title of sole manufacturer.

An announcement could take place in April.

It is important to emphasize that no official statement can be made. Indeed, the FIA must go through a tender process, and it seems evident that the board of directors could redefine the selection criteria to enable several manufacturers to respond favorably.

Would the tire war rise from its ashes?

Michelin, due to its glorious past, seems to be in a strong position, and its return could be conditioned by an unwavering demand for non-competition. Indeed, being the sole manufacturer is a real advantage on a commercial and marketing level.

But the manufacturer with the Bibendum has always expressed its desire to take on real challenges.

Thus in 2008, during the previous call for tenders, the mere idea of being the sole manufacturer caused the project to collapse, as for this company only real competition in this competitive world can be beneficial for the parties involved.

It should be remembered that from 2001 to 2006, Michelin was already in F1, with many successes to its name. The manufacturer was also at the heart of controversy, notably after the scandal at the United States GP in 2005.

With a conquering mindset and a past from which to learn from its mistakes, Michelin cannot accept a return as the exclusive supplier.

That would be too simple, without stakes.

For Jean-Dominique Senard, one of the company’s leading thinkers, the matter is settled:

We could consider a return, but there are very clear conditions for us.

We know that the French manufacturer is keen to participate in a “greener” motorsport. This would be an opportunity to put this theme at the center of discussions for the next season.