Michelin Boss Pleased with First Podium Sweep

Michelin's motorsport director Pierre Dupasquier was delighted with the performance of their partner teams following the most successful Grand Prix for the French tyre manufacturer since they returned to Formula One two years ago.

The Michelin-shod cars of David Coulthard, Juan Pablo Montoya and Kimi Raikkonen monopolised the podium in today's Australian Grand Prix, beating the Bridgestone-shod Ferrari of World Champion Michael Schumacher, who today could only finish in fourth position.

It was the first time since Michelin returned to the sport in 2001 that they scored a 1-2-3 victory.

"Today's result was partly affected by the weather and partly by the Safety Car periods, so it is hard to draw any firm conclusions, but it is clear that our tyres were fast, consistent and very durable," said Dupasquier.

The little Frenchman, however, said Michelin would continue working hard.

"Our performances at the end of 2002 and today prove that our current range of tyres is effective - but the quest for improved performance never ends. We will not be sitting on our laurels," he said.