Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsFormula 1

Michelin enters F1 tyre tender for 2017

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After a ten year absence from Grand Prix racing, Michelin has decided to challenge Pirelli to become Formula 1's sole tyre supplier from 2017.

Following the tender process, the French manufacturer confirmed it had submitted a bid to the FIA, the sport's governing body, which includes 18 inch lower profile, long lasting tyres.

Michelin, which currently supplies similar specification tyres to the all-electric Formula E series and the FIA World Endurance championship, will go head-to-head with Pirelli as the Italian company looks to extend its relationship with F1 which started in 2011.

According to Pascal Couasnon, Michelin's motor sport director, the firm's involvement would be conditional however on the FIA moving F1 to 18-inch wheels.

"What's important for us is being able to propose some ideas," Couasnon told Autosport. "We love the sport, but we believe there is something better than can be done today. We are not saying we are right, but at least we would like to contribute to the sport, and bring a little bit of innovation."

It is not believed that a third tyre manufacturer will submit a bid before the tender process closes on July 17. The FIA will then assess each company's proposal based on its safety and technical provisions before choosing F1's official supplier.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.