Michelin will win, despite exit

(GMMf1NET) Michelin can dominate in 2006 even though the French tire manufacturer will quit F1 at the end of the year.

In fact, according to F1 director Nick Shorrock, Bibendum's exit could lead to an even tighter grip over rubber rival Bridgestone.

He insisted: ''Our advanced research team will be able to focus all its efforts on this year, rather than dividing its time between the present season and longer-term projects.''

Shorrock, whose employer utterly dominated last year with 18 out of 19 wins, said it is a 'pity' that Michelin is quitting, but is adamant that the marque's motivation is 'as strong as ever'.

However, the rules have moved more in Bridgestone's favor, leading Nick Shorrock to believe that 2006's war won't be easily won.

''We anticipate that some of our keenest rivals will up their game,'' he said.