You see, Bridgestone really has no incentive to spend huge dollars this year either, as they know, come 2007 and beyond, they will
win every F1 race no matter what, so why pour money into it now, just to beat someone you know is leaving. Michelin, on the other hand, may well opt to put in some development just to push Bridgestone as far as it can.
If I were a betting man, I would lay odds that somewhere, somehow, someone from Bridgestone and someone from Michelin have talked, maybe even over lunch. The gist probably was this: Let's not go nuts on tires this year, neither will win. Here's what we do. We [Michelin] will announce that we will leave after 2006, and you [Bridgestone] can then negotiate a strong deal for 2007 and beyond. This probably includes trackside signage, maybe even TV ads and overall TV time, hospitality suites and even use of the Formula 1 'brand' logo.
I know you are asking, "Russ, why would two of the largest tire manufacturers want to work together?"
Here's why. Michelin took a beating at the U.S. Grand Prix last year, and the only time you ever hear about tires is when something goes wrong - the finger is always pointed at the tires, and the tire manufacturer - which isn't good for business. You see, with competing manufacturers involved in a
series, they normally both lose, because they both push the 'safety envelope' to get the best tire possible. The only thing that comes out of this is bad news, for the most part. Ask yourself this question. Do you remember Michelin for claiming the World Championship with Fernando Alonso, or the debacle at Indy? Exactly.
Now with Bridgestone being the sole manufacturer, the cars and the sport will probably suffer somewhat. Tires will not be an issue, but rest assured they will be safe, and probably never have a failure. This means harder tires, which will slow the cars down, and yet, Bridgestone will still win the World Championship.
If you are a lover of true Formula 1, then pay close attention this year, it is probably the last time you will see a 'true' chase for the championship for some time.
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| Bridgestone, Ferrari's tire supplier, really has no incentive to spend huge dollars this year either, as they know, come 2007 and beyond, they will win every F1 race no matter what. (Photo: Auto Sport Press) |
If I were a betting man, I would lay odds that somewhere, somehow, someone from Bridgestone and someone from Michelin have talked, maybe even over lunch. The gist probably was this: Let's not go nuts on tires this year, neither will win. Here's what we do. We [Michelin] will announce that we will leave after 2006, and you [Bridgestone] can then negotiate a strong deal for 2007 and beyond. This probably includes trackside signage, maybe even TV ads and overall TV time, hospitality suites and even use of the Formula 1 'brand' logo.
I know you are asking, "Russ, why would two of the largest tire manufacturers want to work together?"
Here's why. Michelin took a beating at the U.S. Grand Prix last year, and the only time you ever hear about tires is when something goes wrong - the finger is always pointed at the tires, and the tire manufacturer - which isn't good for business. You see, with competing manufacturers involved in a
 |
| It is entirely possible that Michelin will show up fighting in 2006, to go out with a bang. (Photo: Auto Sport Press) |
Now with Bridgestone being the sole manufacturer, the cars and the sport will probably suffer somewhat. Tires will not be an issue, but rest assured they will be safe, and probably never have a failure. This means harder tires, which will slow the cars down, and yet, Bridgestone will still win the World Championship.
If you are a lover of true Formula 1, then pay close attention this year, it is probably the last time you will see a 'true' chase for the championship for some time.