Tyre manufacturer announces return in 2001

Tyre manufacturer Michelin announced it will return to Formula One after a 17-year absence in 2001, teaming up with the Williams-BMW team and Team Toyota two years later.

Tyre manufacturer Michelin announced it will return to Formula One after a 17-year absence in 2001, teaming up with the Williams-BMW team and Team Toyota two years later.

Based at Clermont Ferrand, France, Michelin shared in three drivers' and two constructors' world championships between 1978 and 1984. In 2001 it will be back to challenge Bridgestone, which became the sole tyre supplier in 1999 after Goodyear dropped out.

"This sport has evolved considerably in the past 15 years," said Edouard Michelin, chief executive of the Michelin Group.

"That's why we say we are entering, not reentering. Automotive technology has changed and tyres have changed too. It's going to be challenge and, at Michelin, we love challenges."