Michelin will take over as MotoGP’s official tyre supplier from the 2016 season onwards, it was announced today. The French company, who last competed in the championship in 2008, will replace Bridgestone who announced their impending departure three weeks ago.
Nicky Hayden was Michelin’s last world champion after his last gasp triumph in 2006 (Photo Credit: MotoGP.com)
Michelin were an ever-present in the MotoGP paddock through the 1980s and 1990s with Kevin Schwantz’s 1993 500cc world title being the first of fourteen consecutive premier class crowns to go to a Michelin-shod rider. The switch to a sole supplier in 2008 brought about their departure but Michelin Motorsport’s Director Pascal Couasnon feels the upcoming rule changes being brought into the sport have made a return attractive to them.
“Our policy of carrying over our technologies from track to street fits perfectly with the new technical regulations which are due to be introduced in 2016 and which will dictate the use of 17-inch wheels. That is why Michelin decided to submit a bid following the tender process instigated by Dorna Sports. We take this opportunity to thank the governing bodies for the confidence they have placed in us today. Their confidence recognises Michelin’s expertise and the 26 Riders’ world titles it has secured”
Meanwhile, Dunlop has reaffirmed its commitment to the Moto2 and Moto3 classes having chosen not submit a tender to for the 2016-18 MotoGP contract.
