WRC shelves plan for control tyres

Discussions over a Formula 1-style single supplier deal were held earlier this year, amid strong speculation such a move was likely.

FIA rally director Jarmo Mahonen has now dismissed that plan, following Michelin's announcement of a three-year WRC commitment.

"A control tyre does have certain benefits, but why would we try to fix something that's not broken?" Mahonen told Autosport.

"We are very lucky to have four tyre manufacturers in the WRC, something I see as a very good thing."

Michelin motorsport director Pascal Cousanon said the WRC was ideal for his firm "due to the close ties that exist between the discipline and everyday motoring, since the WRC features roads and tracks that are used by ordinary motorists".

While Michelin supplies all the factory teams at present, Pirellis are used by several privateer World Rally Car entrants and DMACK fields a team with M-Sport - coming close to victory in Poland with Ott Tanak this year.