Michelin contact Colin Edwards about testing role

Colin Edwards has moved a step closer to playing a pivotal role in development of Michelin’s new MotoGP tyres in 2016.

Michelin bosses made initial contact with the American last Friday in Mugello and in-depth discussions will follow about the 40-year-old landing a test rider role ahead of the French manufacturer taking over from Bridgestone as official MotoGP tyre supplier.

Edwards will retire at the end of the season and his vast experience, speed and previous close association with Michelin makes him an outstanding candidate to work closely on tyre development throughout 2015.

Edwards won both his WSB titles in 2000 and 2002 with Michelin and his link with a testing role was first reported by MCN two weeks ago.

“I haven’t talked to them in any detail but it was a simple contact. They’ve obviously got a lot going on trying to figure all of this new MotoGP deal out but I would definitely entertain the idea, “said Edwards.

Edwards believes a testing role will see him predominantly riding in secret sessions at Michelin’s Ladoux test track in France, where he has completed thousands of laps previously as a key tyre developer in WSB and MotoGP.

He added: “My whole idea of retiring is so I can spend some time at home rather than come to 18 Monday tests. My ideal scenario is they are going to have to a lot of background work done before you even bring any tyres to the track and 100% I’m keen on weeding out casings and constructions that feel good and let them pick what they want. There’s no point me being at the races testing on Monday. The race guys will be doing that.”