MONTE CARLO, Monaco -- The world governing body of motor
sport, Renault and Bridgestone issued condolences Saturday after
the death of Edouard Michelin, the head of the French tire company.
Michelin, who took the company back into Formula One in 2001
after a 17-year absence, was killed Friday in a boating accident
near Sein island off western France's Atlantic coast.
Michelin had been co-managing partner since 1999 of the company
founded by his great-grandfather and his great-great uncle in 1889.
"The FIA extends sincere condolences to the Michelin family on
the sad news of the death of Edouard Michelin," said motor sport's
world governing body in a statement. "Our thoughts are with Mr.
Michelin's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time."
In Monte Carlo -- where the Monaco Grand Prix is being held this
weekend -- team members of the Formula One tire supplier wore black
armbands before qualifying on Saturday.
Michelin supplied tires to F1 champions on three occasions,
including last year with Renault's Fernando Alonso.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Edouard
Michelin," said Renault team president Alain Dassas. "His
dynamic, modern style of leadership set an example for French
business throughout the world ... He will be greatly missed."
After last year's U.S. Grand Prix in December when all teams
using Michelin tires sat out the race with concerns over safety,
the tire company announced it would depart F1 after this season.
"We have always had the highest regard and admiration for Mr.
Edouard Michelin, and we express our deepest sympathy to both his
family and his company," Bridgestone, Michelin's F1 tire rival,
said in a statement.