Cooper Avon have confirmed their interest in supplying Formula One with tyres in 2011, joining Michelin as one of two possible candidates to replace Bridgestone.
“As a major motorsport tire manufacturer, Cooper Tire, through its Avon Tires Motorsport operation, has been approached to supply Formula 1. The company is in discussion with the relevant parties and cannot comment further at this stage.”
With the departure of the Japanese tyre supplier at the end of 2009, F1 is looking for a new manufacturer. It seems FOTA have in principle agreed to Michelin’s demands, which involve the introduction of an 18-inch wheel, rather than the current 13-inches.
However, the Michelin contract includes payment from each team, something the smaller teams aren’t keen on, and nor is commerical rights holder, Bernie Ecclestone.
It’s thought Ecclestone is backing the supply contract from Cooper Avon, rather than ex-supplier, Michelin, despite confirming to the BBC that he didn’t mind which company succeeded.
“We’re trying to make an agreement. I don’t mind [which company] as long as the teams are happy.”
