BMW Motorsport and Michelin join forces to take on the ALMS and Nürburgring 24 Hours.

Munich (DE), 12th February 2013. The BMW Z4 GTEs in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) and the works-supported BMW Z4 GT3s at the Nürburgring 24 Hours (DE) will take to the track with Michelin as their tyre partner in the 2013 season. The collaboration began with joint testing in January, before the maiden race outing together on 16th March 2013 at the 12 Hours of Sebring (US), which traditionally kicks off the American Le Mans Series (ALMS). 

“We are delighted to be working together with Michelin, and are confident our teams running the BMW Z4 GTE and BMW Z4 GT3 will benefit from this iconic company’s motorsport experience and from the renowned quality of its tyres,” said BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt. “The durability and performance of the tyres play a crucial role in motorsport. With Michelin at our side as tyre partner, we are excellently positioned in both these areas.” 

Three different compounds for slicks (hard, intermediate and soft) will be available for the BMW Z4 GTE in the ALMS, as well as a compound for wets from Michelin’s “Ultimate” wet tyre range. 

“In January we began a series of tests that will involve working with BMW Motorsport to identify the operating windows and pressures of our different slicks and also work on the set-up of the new car,” said Serge Grisin, manager of Michelin’s racing activities. “We are delighted with the confidence BMW Motorsport has placed in us. Making sure we live up to these expectations is an extra source of motivation for me and my team.” 

Like BMW Motorsport, Michelin can also look back on a very successful history in motor racing. Michelin has won numerous titles in Formula One, at the le Mans 24 Hours (FR), and in rallying.