Inside The Michelin Man’s Story — From Tires To Stars
Meet Bibendum – The Michelin Man
Bibendum — better recognised as the Michelin Man — is a symbol of trust, safety, and innovation in mobility.
Created by the Michelin tire company in France, Bibendum was originally drawn as a towering figure made entirely of stacked tires.
Early Depictions
The first sketches showed Bibendum holding a goblet filled with nails, glass, and stones — a bold way of saying Michelin tires could "drink up" road hazards.
His name "Bibendum" comes from the Latin phrase *Nunc est bibendum* — meaning "Now is the time to drink."
From Mummy-Like Figure to Slim Icon
In 1998, for his 100th birthday, he underwent a redesign to appear healthier, friendlier, and less bulky.
He regularly appears at auto shows, motorsport events, and Michelin Man mascot promotional campaigns, often interacting directly with audiences.
From Tires to Fine Dining
Today, when people hear "Michelin," they think of both performance on the road and excellence on the plate.
In 2025, the Michelin Guide continues to expand across the Middle East and Asia, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Tokyo adding new starred restaurants.
A Mascot That Refuses to Fade
In an era of digital marketing, few mascots have survived — but the Michelin Man remains iconic.
He reflects values of reliability, durability, and quality — qualities Michelin wants drivers and diners alike to associate with its name.
Why Bibendum Will Keep Rolling
He bridges industries, from automobiles to haute cuisine, and carries a global presence few mascots can match.
As long as Michelin tires keep rolling and Michelin stars keep shining, Bibendum will remain part of the story.