2 November: The Sauber
Petronas team announced today their switch to Michelin tyres effective
immediately. Sauber have used Bridgestone tyres for the last 6 years and
although Bridgestone had an advantage this year, with the tyre rule changes
for next year, Sauber are hoping for a Michelin advantage in '05. It will be
the first time for Sauber and their engine suppliers Ferrari to run on
different tyres.
Last year BAR Honda made the switch from Bridgestone to Michelin and it is rumoured
that Toyota are considering a switch from Michelin to
Bridgestone.
A press statement by the Sauber team read:
SAUBER PETRONAS has signed a contract with French tyre manufacturer
Michelin. This agreement comes into effect immediately, and SAUBER PETRONAS
will conduct its first test with Michelin tyres between November 24 and 26 in
Barcelona.
SAUBER PETRONAS Team Principal Peter Sauber said: "I’m very
pleased that we were able to sign this contract with Michelin and I’m
looking forward to a successful co-operation. At the same time I would like to
thank Bridgestone for a good partnership during the past six years."
Pierre Dupasquier, Head of Michelin Group’s Competition
Operations, commented: "As we demonstrated in 2004, our technology makes
a significant contribution to the performance of Formula One cars equipped by
Michelin. I look forward to enabling SAUBER PETRONAS to benefit from this
progress."
