By Phil Huff (11/10/2003)
October 11 2003

With confirmation that Lucky Strike BAR Honda have indeed approached Michelin for a supply of tyres next year, Bridgestone have released the following statement... Bridgestone Motorsport can confirm that the BAR team has requested that it be released from its contract with Bridgestone for the supply of Formula One tyres in the FIA Formula One World Championship.

Although this contract is not due to expire until the end of 2004, Bridgestone is investigating the legal implications of this request. The technological benefits of the continuation of a working relationship with BAR in 2004 are also being assessed.

With regards to this weekend, the final round of the 2003 championship, Bridgestone will of course respect its current contractual obligations and provide its best efforts and professional service to the BAR team. It is hoped that BAR will do the same.

It is also expected that BAR will continue to respect the terms and conditions of its contract with Bridgestone.