Michelin has received confirmation from the FIA that it can supply tires for the 2011 World Rally Championship.
After registering interest in returning to the WRC by the end of last month, the French firm confirmed the news that it would be back in rallying's top category and, in the absence of Pirelli, is expected to be used by Citroen, Ford and Mini.
Michelin's statement said: "The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile [FIA] has accepted Michelin's application to supply tires for the World Rally Championship beginning in 2011. Michelin's application was prompted by the FIA's decision to open the championship to more than one tire manufacturer and by the likelihood of a rule change.
"Racing offers Michelin's teams the opportunity to validate their technological innovations in the most extreme conditions of use. These innovations will then be transferred to street tires, thereby helping to improve the performance balance and lower the environmental impact of Michelin's products. Motorsports also provide a powerful incentive for Michelin to further its mission of ensuring sustainable mobility.
"That's why Michelin supports the FIA in its commitment to integrating a more responsible vision of rallying by reducing the number of tires used in races, beginning in 2012. This is in line with an environmental approach that Michelin has been pursuing since 1992, when it introduced its first fuel-efficient tire."