Michelin, one of the three parties named in a class action thrown out by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker last week, has admitted that it is "pleased" with the decision.

"Michelin is very pleased with Judge Barker's decision dismissing the entire class action lawsuit with prejudice," said Michael Fanning, Vice President, Corporate Affairs Michelin North America. "Michelin has always felt that our quick action to voluntarily refund all tickets to the 2005 race and to purchase 20,000 tickets to the 2006 race was the right thing to do in the interest of the fans and the sport.

"We and our partner teams now look forward to a very competitive 2006 United States Grand Prix and to continuing Michelin's winning season in Formula One."

The action, which involved ten separate lawsuits, was against Michelin, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Michelin and Formula One. Those bringing the action called were claiming damages in addition to compensation for ticket and travel costs for thousands of race fans.

Indianapolis lawyer Henry J. Price has said that an appeal will be filed at the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago next week.

In addition to refunds for race fans attending the 2005 event, Michelin has provided 20,000 tickets for this year's race, which takes place on July 2.

Furthermore, the French company has scheduled a number of events for the days leading up to race, including autograph sessions and a fans' question-and-answer session with World Champion Fernando Alonso.