USA: Sauber withdraw from United States Grand Prix


By Phil Huff
June 19 2005

Sauber Petronas have withdrawn from the United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis, refusing to race on tyres declared unsafe by Michelin. With the FIA refusing to install a temporary chicane, all seven Michelin shod teams took the decision to retire from the event.

The FIA have placed the blame for this situation firmly on Michelin's shoulders, reminding them of their obligation to provide suitable equipment to the teams.

Bernie Ecclestone was also adamant where the problem lies: "The problem has been caused by the tyre, obviously," said Ecclestone. "Michelin brought the wrong tyres. It's as simple as that."

When questioned about the future of F1 in America and the future of Michelin in F1, he replied in a somewhat downbeat fashion "Not good, on both counts."

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