By Ian Lockwood
February 2 2006

Flavio Briatore has accused Red Bull Racing of betrayal. Speaking at the launch of the R26, Flavio criticised Red Bull's decision to vote in favour of a return to tyre changes for 2006 because Michelin held such an advantage over Bridgestone in the construction of long-life rubber.

Back in a December meeting of the F1 Commission, a vote was taken on whether to allow a return to tyre changes in 2006.

It emerged that Red Bull were instrumental in allowing tyre changes back.

For the rule to be passed by the F1 Commission, a two thirds majority vote was needed. The commission is made up of 26 members (10 team bosses, Max, Bernie, an Engine supplier, Tyre supplier, oil supplier, plus other sponsors & promoters), meaning 18 yes votes were required for the changes make the rule book.

All Michelin team bosses were expected to vote "NO" as Michelin clearly had an advantage over Bridgestone in the non-change formula, due to the fundamentally different way the two manufacturers contruct their tyres.

Christian Horner, however, voted to allow tyre changes back in.

At the Renault launch Briatore was asked for his opinions on the rule changes for 2006. Flavio said they accepted that the change in qualifying was necessary for the good of the sport, but vented his anger on the subject of tyre changes: "We thought it was good to have one tyre for the race, but someone betrayed us from within the Michelin family. Red Bull voted against us, it was completely mad. I'm upset and it will be very interesting to see what they will do this season"

His comments hint that Red Bull Racing may not get the full support of the French tyre supplier this season. Michelin have already shown their disapproval of Red Bull's actions. In a press release announcing their withdrawal from F1 at the end of 2006 they said "After consulting with its loyal partners (McLaren Mercedes, BMW Sauber F1, Renault F1, Honda Racing F1) as well as with Sir Frank Williams, Michelin is now convinced that the evolution towards a single tyre supplier is inevitable." - Red Bull Racing was conspicuously ommitted from the list.