New Outlook For Michelin In Rally Racing

The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has accepted Michelin’s application to supply tires for the World Rally Championship (FIA-WRC) beginning in 2011.

Michelin’s application was prompted by the FIA’s decision to open the championship to more than one tire manufacturer and by the likelihood of a rule change.

Racing offers Michelin’s teams the opportunity to validate their technological innovations in the most extreme conditions of use. These innovations will then be transferred to street tires, thereby helping to improve the performance balance and lower the environmental impact of Michelin’s products. Motorsports also provide a powerful incentive for Michelin to further its mission of ensuring sustainable mobility.

That’s why Michelin supports the FIA in its commitment to integrating a more responsible vision of rallying by reducing the number of tires used in races, beginning in 2012. This is in line with an environmental approach that Michelin has been pursuing since 1992, when it introduced its first fuel efficient tire.

Michelin participated in the premier-class category of rally racing when competition was open to several tire makers, until 2005, winning 38 world championships titles over the years, a testimonial to its extensive skills and expertise. Of that total, 20 were in the manufacturers category, created in 1973, and 18 were in the drivers category, officially introduced in 1979.

Next season, Michelin will supply its partners with MICHELIN-brand rally tires.