"Since 2004, when we were refused supply by either Michelin or
Bridgestone, we have been in favour of a one-tyre rule," said Aksland. "That year we were put into the position of developing Dunlop tyres, and at the same time we were trying to develop our own machine. It did not make sense for either of us. Dunlop needed a manufacturer that had a developed bike, like they have this year [with Tech 3] and we needed a developed tyre.
"So when you have been in the position that we have come from, raising millions of dollars in sponsorship to compete and then not to have the opportunity to choose the tyre you feel is appropriate, you don't have to think too hard about what is best," he continued. "So for sure, having a one-tyre rule is attractive to an independent team like ours because that eliminates that element of whether we have tyres that are as good as the competition or not. Of course, this is assuming the rule would guarantee all teams had the same tyres to choose from..."
A decision on the proposed single tyre rule is due to be made during the Malaysian Grand Prix weekend, on October 19-21.
