Share this article on LinkedIn Email

Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has called on Pirelli not to change its ways after finding the tyre supplier not guilty of any wrongdoing during the Belgian Grand Prix.

Following an exhaustive analysis of the blowouts that occurred during the recent race at Spa, the FIA declared itself "satisfied" with Pirelli's investigations.

Now Ecclestone and Formula One Management have also expressed support to the Italian manufacturer.

The move comes at a time when Ecclestone is deliberating as to whether Pirelli or Michelin should earn the new three-year tyre supply contract from 2017.

A statement issued by FOM read: "Pirelli has been a first class partner of Formula 1 during the five seasons in which it has been the official supplier of tyres to the FIA Formula 1 world championship.

"We continue to have full confidence in the safety, quality and suitability of its tyres.

"Within the constraints of safety considerations, which are always paramount, Formula 1 encourages Pirelli to provide tyre compounds with performance because tyre degradation contributes to the challenge and entertainment of a Formula 1 race.

"When doing so, Pirelli provides strong guidance to competitors about any performance limitations of the tyres supplied.

"Competitors should heed Pirelli's expert advice when setting their race strategy and tactics, and if they do not, it is at their own risk.

"We are entirely satisfied Pirelli was not at fault for any tyre-related incidents during the Belgian Grand Prix."

Given Michelin has stated it would prefer to supply a tyre that would last a race, FOM has made clear it has no intention of heading down such a route in the future.

The statement added: "Pirelli has offered to provide to each car a single set of tyres to last for an entire event.

"While we know they would be very capable of it, a race with no pit stops would be less exciting.

"Thank you, Pirelli, for helping us to deliver excitement to Formula 1 fans."