(Editor's Note: The following represents the many responses we received from Freak Nation members on the issue of blame after the tire fiasco during this year's U.S. Grand Prix in Indianapolis. These responses also represent a poll we did recently that had the opinions split between blaming tire manufacturer Michelin and The FIA. Happy reading!)
The Debacle as it has been referred to many times over was the worst racing tragedy that I can think of since Dale Earnhart’s death. I was set to watch this race and woke up early just to view it and low and behold I discover that 14 or so cars will not run because they do not have the proper tires. Michelin is the only one at fault here because they had more than ample time to test tires, are spending more than enough money for research to do so and the track is not a new track; it has been around for a while. There was no excuse then and there still isn’t one now. Michelin screwed up and should be reimbursing the fans instead of the FIA.
Andre Jones
Racing Fan
Michelin made a mistake with their tires at Indy. They have acknowledged this. Michelin couldn't let the boys race with a clear conscience. They proposed a solution where they would endorse the race (putting a chicane before turn 13). Tony George was willing to make it happen.
It was the FIA that couldn't pull their heads out of their asses and find a compromise to allow the race to take place. The FIA holds the ultimate responsibility.
Will
Toronto, Ontario
I believe the fault lies with Michelin and the governing body. Sure they brought the wrong tire but something should have been done to allow the race to go on as scheduled. Add the chicane like it was asked for or let them ship in the right tire for the race. come on everybody makes mistakes.
I can't help but laugh at the finger pointing and blaming Michelin. Did they bring a suitable race tire, no. Did they mean to send a 747 full of tires over here that weren't going to work, no. They fully admit they made a mistake, but how were they supposed to fix that after they got there?
They had no choice other than to inform the teams of the danger that was present. It is clearly the FIA's fault for not allowing the race to go on, end of story. I would think that since it's your job to be on TV and talk about motor sports, you might know a little bit about how the sport works…. what a novel idea.
Matt
I believe the Tire manufactures and the Teams which employ them that are at fault. First the teams didn't show up a week earlier, or send a test car and crew in a couple of days earlier to test under full race conditions and number of laps. I think the results of the race where exactly what was need, and hopefully the tire market will reflect the disappointment of the Indy F1 race… I guarentee I would't let anybody put those tires on my car, or any of my families car…. Hopefully you wouldn't either…