China preview quotes: Michelin

Nick Shorrock, Formula One director: "The Formula One world championships for drivers and constructors have been fiercely contested all season - and with three races to go both remain wide open

"Michelin and its partner teams have been very busy during the past two weeks. In preparation for the forthcoming races in China and Japan, two radically different circuits that require a contrasting approach from our side, we have been testing new tyre evolutions at Jerez and Silverstone.

"In addition, we have also been doing further development work to improve our qualifying pace.

"This will be only the third F1 race at Shanghai and there have been different tyre regulations in force every time. Consequently we have had to work just as hard as we did in each of the two previous years to make sure we select appropriate products.

"Shanghai is a very distinctive track, with a couple of slow corners that seem to go on forever and two very long straights. At some points cars reach speeds well in excess of 300km/h (186mph).

"Good traction is imperative for the twisty parts of the circuit, although tyres are subjected to fewer mechanical/thermal demands here than they are at some other venues.

"Michelin drivers have annexed five of six possible podium positions during the first two Chinese Grands Prix and we will be doing our utmost to maintain that proud record this year. The season might be drawing towards its conclusion, but our commitment remains absolute.

"With 3 races to go there is no letting up either at the front or with our other partners who have made excellent progress through the year. We are trying to give Renault a decisive advantage, but that's not all.

"We need to make sure BMW finish ahead of Toyota in the constructors' championship, and that Kimi Raikkonen and Giancarlo Fisichella beat Felipe Massa in the Drivers' standings."