French tyre manufacturer Michelin has extended its partnership with the MotoGP motorcycling championship.
Michelin will continue to serve as the sole tyre supplier of MotoGP’s premier class for a further five years, from 2019 to 2023.
Michelin agreed the new deal with Dorna Sports, MotoGP’s commercial rights-holder. The agreement was announced on Saturday at the Australian Grand Prix, which was title sponsored by Michelin.
Michelin will continue to receive trackside brand exposure at each MotoGP race as part of the extended agreement, with the company to retain title sponsorship rights to one grand prix.
Pascal Couasnon, director of Michelin Motorsport, said: “Michelin intends to use its continuing association with Dorna Sports to continue developing ever-safer and more competitive racing tyres, as well as innovations that will go on to benefit our road tyres.
“Michelin is also delighted to continue working with the teams and riders who gave us such a warm welcome back after our absence from the championship and also to be able to build on the sense of pride felt by our staff following our successful return to MotoGP.”
Michelin first partnered with MotoGP ahead of the 2016 season, taking over from Japanese manufacturer Bridgestone.