In accordance with the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) Sporting Regulations, any tyre manufacturer is permitted to supply tyres, reflecting the FIA’s strategy to have a greater association with road relevant technologies and environmental sustainability in motor sport while maintaining cost control. In addition, this provides greater freedom for private entrants in the WRC.
In 2012, Michelin and DMack Tyres will once again be the registered tyre companies for all entrants of 4WD cars, except for non-priority entrants driving 4WD Group N and 2WD cars.
In 2012 there will be a reduction in the permitted quantity of tyres and for WRC cars there will be a maximum of seven tyre changes on any rally with a maximum of five tyres per change (35 tyres per rally by comparison with 48 in 2011).
Full details relating to tyre quantities for Priority 1, 2 and 3 drivers, as well as all other entrants competing in WRC events, will be precisely defined in the 2012 FIA World Rally Championship Sporting Regulations.
The quantity of permitted tyres will be further reduced by 15-20% in 2013 and 2014 as the tyre companies continue to increase the durability of their products while maintaining current levels of performance.