Bridgestone signed a three-year deal to be the official tire provider for the 2008 through 2010 seasons; because Groupe Michelin will withdraw from the series after this season, Bridgestone will also be the sole supplier for the 2007 F1 season.

Federation Internationale Automobile (FIA) announced the decision to go with Bridgestone on July 5.

Some F1 watchers expected at least one, and perhaps two, other tire companies to make bids.

But Michelin, which presently supplies tires for six F1 teams, did not part quietly. “The change of Formula One rules bringing about a monopoly in tires is completely contrary to principles,” Michelin said in a press statement. “Formula One should be a place were advanced technologies compete as a means of improving motor sport."