BAR set for switch to Michelin

BAR currently runs on tyres supplied by Japanese rival Bridgestone, but has requested to be released from its contract with the Japanese team. Although Michelin has not yet agreed to supply the team in 2004, current F1 regulations require a tyre manufacturer to supply 60 percent of the teams if requested to do so.

"It is very satisfying for us to see that by asking to use our tyres in 2004, BAR is counting on us to help the team reach the objectives it has set itself for the coming season," said Michelin CEO Edouard Michelin. "This shows that the team shares the opinion widely held by many of the sport's specialists on the performance of Michelin tyres."

Bridgestone issued a release about the BAR situation, confirming that the team had requested it be released from its current contract. "Although this contract is not due to expire until the end of 2004, Bridgestone is investigating the implications of this request," read the statement. "The technological benefits of the continuation of a working relationship with BAR in 2004 are also being assessed."

The statement continued that it would continue to provide "its best efforts and professional service" to BAR for this weekend's Japanese GP, and that it hoped BAR "would continue to respect the terms and conditions of its contract with Bridgestone."

BAR has reached a resolution in its legal dispute with PPGI, the firm that had the team's cars impounded at the French Grand Prix. PPGI had brought a claim against BAR regarding commission for a sponsorship arrangement, with BAR in turn issuing a counter-suit. However, both sides have now withdrawn their claims following mediation, and no further action will be taken.