Michelin has a new opponent for 2011

You have already been able to read on your favorite site casinoenligne.uk.com the details of the negotiations regarding the new tire supply contract for 2011. Indeed, Bridgestone’s decision to withdraw at the end of this championship left the door open to the wildest rumors: would the FIA decide to open tire supply to competition? Would one of the legendary manufacturers, namely Michelin, make a return? Under what conditions? Which of the other manufacturers might decide to take the leap and come participate in the legend of the pinnacle of motorsport?

Michelin is the name that has been consistently mentioned since the beginning. Other more “exotic” manufacturers have been cited: Kumho and Hankook.

Today, Michelin’s participation is almost guaranteed, only the conditions required are still unclear. It is said that the manufacturer’s desire is not to be the sole tire supplier. Bibendum wants competition. After its victory in 2006 with Renault and Alonso, the Clermont-Ferrand manufacturer refused to continue since the FIA wanted to move to a single supplier.

After announcing the names of Korean manufacturers, a newcomer is making headlines: Cooper Avon, this Anglo-American company is reportedly in talks to rival Michelin. Avon is a company owned by the Cooper Tire & Rubber Company group. Avon tires are present in British GT, World Sportscar C2, FIA SR2, and ALMS SR2. Cooper tires have already raced in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and are present in Champ Car, as well as in Formula Drift and numerous Sportsman Drag Racing categories.

The grand financier of F1, Bernie Ecclestone, stated: “We are trying to find an agreement. It doesn’t matter which manufacturer, as long as the teams are happy.”

In the paddock, the idea is put forward that many teams would prefer to work with Michelin. Indeed, Avon is seen as a small structure with limited capabilities compared to the French giant. In response to these concerns, Avon is planning to take over the tires provided by Bridgestone.

For the teams on the grid, it is urgent to clarify this situation as it will impact the design of the cars planned for 2011. For example, entering into a partnership agreement with Michelin would involve the introduction of 18-inch rims, as desired by the French manufacturer, whereas the current wheels are 13 inches.

All of this would have a huge impact on the design of the single-seaters. Significant changes to the suspension setup would be expected, as the management of bumps would also be completely different.

It should be noted that currently, tire sidewalls are larger and are used to better absorb shocks. It’s important to know that smaller “low-profile” sidewalls, which would come with 18-inch wheels, would be less effective unless the suspension is completely redesigned.

2011, a crucial year for the teams, as tire partnership agreements could be the promise of announced success. A single manufacturer would ensure continuity. Two manufacturers would give F1 a different flavor, rekindling the performance war. If Michelin faces a much “smaller” opponent, it’s very likely that the Top Teams will sign with Bibendum. The “small” teams, the more modest ones, will have to settle for an agreement with Avon or another manufacturer. The gaps between the teams would then be even more significant.

A HRT with a Cosworth engine and a Dallara chassis equipped with Avon tires, would it be less fast than this year? The question is posed.