MotoGP tyre supplier Michelin has withdrawn both rear-tyre compounds over safety concerns and will instead introduce a new tyre construction for the Argentinian Grand Prix.
During fourth practice, Pramac's Scott Redding suffered a delamination of his rear-tyre which prompted a red flag and concerns over the safety of the tyre.
"It was really scary," he said. "I felt some chattering with the rear tyre then something hit me. I saw pieces of the bike fly everywhere. I thought the tyre had exploded and I was getting ready for a nasty crash. But a few moments later I felt that the tyre working again as there was still air in. I managed to run off the track without falling and I feel lucky to be standing here to talk about it."
Michelin promised to investigate the incident. Following further discussion with the teams and the International Road-Racing Teams Association (IRTA), the tyre supplier has decided to withdraw both the medium and hard compound and will replace it with a stiffer version of a different construction.
It will be a mandatory use tyre and therefore riders will receive an additional 30-minutes of on-track practice time prior to Sunday's race to help them acclimatise to the new construction.
