MICHELIN EXPERIENCE V PIRELLI ATTITUDE

+ Click to Enlarge THERE'S A LOT OF RUBBER INVOLVED: A Bridgestone technician checks F1 tyres before a GP. The Formula One Teams Association is dragging its feet over naming a replacement sole supplier for Bridgestone for the 2011 season. Image: AFP

June 2, 2010

Formula 1 teams are still undecided about which tyre manufacturer will replace Bridgestone as the sport's tyre supplier in 2011 and say the decision could take a few more days.

French tyremaker Michelin made a last-ditch bid over the weekend after rival Italian manufacturer Pirelli announced last week it was on the brink of signing a two-year deal.

Despite a lengthy meeting in Turkey on Sunday, teams were unable to settle on a decision but are confident that the situation will be sorted out soon.

Williams boss Adam Parr said: "We're still in the process of making the decision. It's taking a bit longer than we would have liked but it should be done in the next few days."

Red Bull boss Christian Horner added: "We hope it can be decided in the next few days."

Paddock sources revealed that some teams favour Michelin over Pirelli on the grounds that they were more recently involved with F1 but Pirelli's attitude and attractive package have made it the favourite to seal the deal.

Michelin competition director Nick Shorrock said: "We have made a proposal, which we believe is reasonable - and is not exaggerated. It is up to the teams to decide which way they want to go.

"I am sure the teams listened, they asked questions and we have tried to clarify as much as possible any doubts that they had." - AFP