Michelin critical of tyre changes return

After a year of making tyres last for qualifying and the race, Formula One will again have drivers making regular pitstops for fresh rubber.

That could boost the fortunes of Bridgestone and Ferrari, eclipsed by Michelin last year but dominant in 2004 when races were sprints between tyre changes.

Shorrock said that, although the rules were revised in the hope of cutting costs, tyre changes mean the French company will need to take even more stock to races than in the previous season.

"Although the rules were changed in a bid to reduce costs, it is disappointing to note that a tyre manufacturer such as Michelin will have to carry 38 per cent more stock to Grands Prix this season than it did in 2005," said Shorrock.

"Michelin is working with six F1 partners this year, rather than seven, yet finds itself having to supply more than 300 extra tyres per race weekend.

"This weekend marks the dawn of a new F1 era. It's a step into the unknown for everybody, but Michelin has prepared with its traditional attention to detail. We expect fierce competition but, as history shows, we thrive on such challenges."

Michelin, the world's biggest tyre group, will leave Formula One at the end of the season after Formula One's ruling body, the FIA, announced plans for a single supplier from 2008.