Just when it seemed a deal for the 2011 Formula 1 tyre supply deal was imminent, news emerged that an FIA tender process was set to begin. Dieter Rencken analyses the current state of play

Since last November folk within the Formula 1 paddock have waited with bated breath for the sport to resolve its tyre supply issue. Seven months later (and a similar period to the first 2011 tests) F1 is no closer to a solution, with matters becoming even more convoluted just when a sensible decision seemed imminent.

The developing crisis has been boiling away since Bridgestone announced its exit from the sport on November 2, 2009, giving a statutory season's notice. And make no mistake crisis is precisely what it is unless bespoke, round black objects are found to fit to each corner of every one of the 24 cars (26 should a 13th team be up and running by Round 1 of next year's series) aiming to enter the 2011 FIA Formula 1 World Championship

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