CLIOS CAUGHT UP IN TYRE STORM
Series set to assess whether to return to hampshire venue next year
The Renault UK Clio Cup is set to evaluate whether to compete at Thruxton again next year after last weekend’s meeting was blighted by tyre woe.
The Thruxton races were reduced from 12 laps to nine amid concerns over whether the tyres would last the full distance.
Series tyre supplier Michelin introduced a new compound for this season but a number of drivers suffered dangerously chewed left-front tyres in qualifying. A combination of the new softer compound, high track temperatures, the abrasive Thruxton surface and demanding high-speed nature of the circuit led to the problems.
After discussions with Michelin, all Clio Cup teams eventually agreed to run less camber – three degrees instead of four – and the race distance being reduced from 12 laps to nine.
Championship manager Will Fewkes said: “Rest assured Renault Sport Racing and Michelin UK are not taking the situation lightly. Once Renault Sport Racing was aware each competitor was provided with a new left-front tyre for each race free of charge.
“Michelin has a vast reputation in top-level motorsport and will be doing everything within their power to resolve this issue moving forward.
“I also think that it is important to stress that this isn’t a new topic for a tyre manufacturer when visiting Thruxton, in fact it’s pretty historic. Maybe it is time to assess the validity of visiting the venue when we formulate our 2019 Renault UK Clio Cup calendar.”
Michelin motorsport manager Tim Hoare pointed out other TOCA categories already don’t compete at Thruxton.
“Around here it’s very, very aggressive on tyres,” he added. “This tyre has been two years in the making and we’ve tested it all over Europe with Renault but Thruxton is a unique challenge. The tyre reacts in a different way to last year’s so lap records will be broken but it’s [a case of] trying to get the balance [with increased speed and durability].”
WDE Motorsport boss Wayne Eason was most critical of the situation – and was reluctant for his drivers to take part in race two – questioning Michelin for bringing an unsuitable tyre, as well as the Thruxton circuit itself.
“I would like to have a tyre that we can use,” said Eason. “It’s not the car’s fault and it’s not the championship’s fault.
“But I think we shouldn’t come here unless the track is resurfaced – and I love this place, when I race my truck it’s my favourite one.”