SpeedTV: Williams Could Run Bridgestone Tires in '06

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Williams Could Run Bridgestone Tires in '06

Written by: Cassio Cortes London, UK – 6/23/2005

BMW’s purchase of Sauber cast a big question mark on the engine future of Williams F1, and while that doubt remains in the air - with a Lexus-branded Toyota or a Cosworth being the most plausible answers - the Grove, UK-based outfit is close to decide on another important matter for next season: switch to Bridgestone tires.

No official confirmation from either the team or the Japanese tiremaker were made, but insiders assure the move is a given. Bridgestone, which currently supplies only Ferrari and backmarkers Jordan and Minardi, is reportedly acting aggressively to increase its squad tally.

Following the “Michelingate” fiasco at the USGP, team founder Frank Williams was one of the most disappointed, admitting that his squad was “desperate” to take part in the event. Williams was among the few Michelin-shod squads not to report any tire failures during the USGP weekend.

If the Williams addition, plus the previously rumored Red Bull siding (click here for story) with Bridgestone are confirmed, Formula 1 would be back to a five-a-piece equal splitting of the teams between the Japanese company and rivals Michelin next year.

http://www.speedtv.com/articles/auto/formulaone/17787/