Bridgestone Investigating BAR Tyre Request

Bridgestone said on Saturday that they are "investigating the legal implications" of BAR-Honda's request to be released from their contract to switch to Michelin.

BAR have used Bridgestone tyres since entering Formula One in 1999, but the Brackley-based team announced on Saturday that they have requested to use rival Michelin rubber next year.

Bridgestone have a contract to supply BAR until the end of the 2004 season and are investigating what course of action to take.

"Bridgestone Motorsport can confirm that the BAR team has requested that it be released from its contract with Bridgestone for the supply of Formula One tyres in the FIA Formula One World Championship," Bridgestone said in a statement.

"Although this contract is not due to expire until the end of 2004, Bridgestone is investigating the legal implications of this request. The technological benefits of the continuation of a working relationship with BAR in 2004 are also being assessed.

"With regards to this weekend, the final round of the 2003 championship, Bridgestone will of course respect its current contractual obligations and provide its best efforts and professional service to the BAR team. It is hoped that BAR will do the same.

"It is also expected that BAR will continue to respect the terms and conditions of its contract with Bridgestone."

Michelin currently supply tyres to Williams, McLaren, Renault, Jaguar and Toyota, while Bridgestone supply the other five teams.