Michelin will be heading to the Losail International Circuit for its return to MotoGP as the championship kicks off at the Qatari track on March 20. Following three informative pre-season tests, including one in Qatar, the company has analyzed all the data to make its decision as to the best tyres to take to the 5.38 km circuit. The Losail circuit is situated in a rocky, desert location and such a track can be very abrasive at times due to the sand that is blown off the surrounding area. This allied to the usually cooler temperatures that are experienced as the sun sets, add to the challenges.
The Qatar race will see the introduction of 17 inch tyres and with a need to have a consistent grip and good durability, the company will take three front and two rear tyres to Losail for the race. Track action at Losail will begin on Thursday, March 17. when the MotoGP stars will take to the circuit for the first free practice session.
Speaking on the occasion, Piero Taramasso, Manager of the Michelin MotoGP Programme, said that the tyre maker is motivated to get back to Qatar and the first round, especially with it being Michelin’s return and the special atmosphere of this night race. Michelin has been preparing for over a year-and-a-half and have worked closely with the teams, the riders and Dorna to provide the best tyres in readiness for the first race. Logistics are very important, because the Qatar event is not the easiest one to manage and all consignments of tyres and equipment have to be shipped in containers, but the tyre maker has prepared for that and will be ready for the first race.