Withdrawal of the Super GT, Michelin gives us the reasons

On May 10, 2023, the Clermont-based manufacturer announced that it would stop its involvement in the GT500 at the end of the year.

Published on 07/06/2023 à 15:12

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Withdrawal of the Super GT, Michelin gives us the reasons

The French tire maker has won the GT500 title four times since first competing in the full season in 1999. The 2023 withdrawal announcement comes as Michelin holds the top two spots in the championship. In Japan, among promoters and fans, it came as a shock.

Initially, Michelin demonstrated its know-how with products adapted to very difficult conditions: during summer events crushed by the heat, on tracks with very abrasive surfaces and which place heavy demands on the tires. In recent years, however, French tires have shown themselves to be extremely efficient in all conditions, particularly rainy ones. As proof, on last year's wet Sugo track, the two Nissan Z / Michelins drove at a pace faster than their opponents by 3 seconds throughout the race, signing a double at the finish.

A simple break?

Michelin Japan did not use the word “withdrawal” in its announcement, but “halt”. However, a public relations officer from Nihon Michelin Tire Co.,Ltd confessed to us “ The reaction to this announcement was greater than we expected. »

Various comments from concerned parties and fans have been seen on websites in Japan. “ Nissan tried to keep its distance from Renault. This time they are trying to do it with Michelin? "" Has Michelin lost interest in the Japanese market? "" Is this a preparation for possible participation in the championship of F1 ?"Etc.

Alas, all these theories are false. Our contact at Michelin told us: “ Now the processes of transforming data and experience acquired in SUPER GT into technology and value, for example in the WEC or other racing categories, shrinks and changes. From then on, we had no choice but to reconsider our commitment. »

War of the manufacturers

For a long time, Michelin officials have said that the SUPER GT was the Competition division's first priority due to the fight between manufacturers like Yokohama or Bridgestone. “ Indeed, the championship offers competition for tire manufacturers, which is rare today, and several global automobile manufacturers also participate. The SUPER GT is an extremely valuable series as a laboratory. »

In fact, GT500 tires are unique development tires “ One-off » manufactured in Clermont-Ferrand for each race and shipped by air to Japan. According to the official announcement, Michelin will continue to participate in the GT300 category in 2024. A technical support team will also remain present. And Nihon Michelin does not deny the possibility of increasing the number of cars fitted with its tires. As for GT300 tires, until 2020, they were commercial tires in the GT3 category, but currently they are prototype tires with advanced development.

This is not the first time that Michelin has stopped its GT500. This was already the case between 2004 and 2008, then limited to the GT300. In conclusion, it is difficult to imagine that Michelin will not come back one day soon.