GREENVILLE, S.C. (June 16, 2005) — Group Michelin plans to send its BFGoodrich brand into the World Rally Championship in 2006, replacing the Michelin brand's involvement in the racing series.
Michelin said the decision strengthens BFGoodrich's current racing involvement in the Rally Raid World Cup, the Dakar Rally plus several North American competitions. Michelin, which has won 36 World Rally Championship titles, continues to participate in Formula 1, MotoGP and Le Mans. The Michelin brand will compete in the World Rally series through this season's end, a spokeswoman said.
Sixteen rallies—on terrain including gravel, tarmac, snow and dirt—are held around the world each year. Participants compete for the shortest overall time.