Nick Shorrock, Director Michelin Competition Division, the Michelin Man, and Dr. Don Panoz, ALMS founder, as Michelin receives its plaque for going in the Sebring Hall of Fame. Photo credit: Rick Dole

On Friday, Michelin was inducted into the Sebring Hall of Fame, the first tire manufacturer to receive the honor. Michelin is the fourth manufacturer overall inducted. Nick Shorrock, Director of Michelin Competition Division, accepted the award.

“It is a great honor to join our good friends from Porsche, Ferrari and Audi as the fourth manufacturer in this Hall of Fame,” Shorrock said. “Each is a Michelin technical partner and each has presented us with exciting innovations, new technologies and new challenges.”

Shorrock emphasized competition plays a pivotal role in Michelin’s motorsports participation throughout its history, dating even to bicycle racing success. Michelin’s motorsports presence is more than just winning, but learning, Shorrock said.

“Our first reason for participating in motorsports is to learn,” he said. “If we stop learning, I assure you that we would soon stop winning. In open competition you cannot win races with dated technology, and you cannot meet the ever changing needs of car makers and consumers in the marketplace with old technologies either.”

Shorrock thanked all Michelin supporters, from suppliers, to teams, partners, and consumers, who have assisted in the manufacturer’s motorsports success. He also recognized the collective efforts of Michelin technical centers, tire designers, developers, chemists, engineers and tire builders, who also play important roles in the program.

“No one in this business wins alone,” he said. “We want to thank all of them for their friendship and support.”