Following a strategic review of its global
motorsport activities, Michelin has decided not to continue its involvement in the 125 and
250 cc Motorcycle Road Racing World Championships in 1999.The company has informed its
leading partners of its decision, which it feels will allow it to better concentrate its
efforts on the 500cc World Championship and World Superbikes. Both championships were won
by Michelin-equipped riders this year.
Michelin has been involved in the Motorcycle Grand Prix series since the very beginning
of the modern era and 1999 will mark its 25th consecutive season in the 500cc
category. Mick Doohan’s fifth straight World title has brought the total number of
Road racing Championships won by Michelin to 59, including 13 in the 250cc series and 18
in the 500cc series.
Michelin has now scored well over 500 race wins in the Championship, including 65 of
the 70 races held in the 500cc class (excluding Argentina). Its Superbike results are
equally impressive with Carl Fogarty’s recent Championship win giving Michelin a
fifth consecutive success in this equally important form of two-wheeled motor sport.
Mr Tim Grant, Michelin Australia’s general manager of marketing said the company
thanked the countless riders, manufacturers and teams that have had confidence in the tyre
manufacturer over the years. "We look forward to continuing Michelin’s success
at the highest levels of sport in 1999 and thereafter," Mr Grant said.
