Following Wednesday's announcement by Michelin that it is to withdraw from F1 at the end of 2006, World Champions Renault have issued the following statement:

"We learn of Michelin's departure with regret, but we respect their decision.

Our technical collaboration in Formula 1 dates back to 1977, and culminated with double championship victory in 2005.

But we enter the new season as world champions, and we are determined to do justice to that status."

Indeed, what of the 2006 season? Does Michelin's planned departure at year's end leave the Renault F1 Team with performance worries for the coming year?

"Not at all," explains Bob Bell. "We go into 2006 as world champions, and we are determined to defend those titles. I have no doubt that Michelin intend to do exactly the same.

"We have already seen enhanced collaboration between the Michelin teams this winter, and a rapid rate of tyre development. We are confident this will continue until the final round of 2006."