Pirelli Gears Up for 2027 MotoGP Entry as Sole Tyre Supplier

Milan, Italy – Pirelli is actively preparing for its role as the sole tyre supplier for MotoGP starting in 2027, following Michelin’s departure from the championship. The move coincides with significant technical regulation changes, including a reduction in engine size to 850cc, diminished aerodynamics, and the elimination of dynamic ride-height devices.

The Italian manufacturer initiated its development process with prototype testing at Misano in September 2023. Further tests are scheduled for 2026 to finalize the tyre compounds specifically tailored for MotoGP. Giorgio Barbier, Racing Director of Pirelli’s motorcycle division, is spearheading the company’s transition into the premier class.

In an interview during the Valencia GP, Barbier outlined the current stage of Pirelli’s tyre creation process. "We are in the initial phase, considering that we are starting a new project with specific dimensions for MotoGP, which uses larger rims than WorldSBK," Barbier stated. "We need to manage very carefully the batches we’ll deliver to the different manufacturers, so they can carry out the relevant tests and develop the bikes throughout next season."

The Misano test served as a critical benchmark for Pirelli. Conducted shortly after a MotoGP race under similar weather conditions and on a track with existing rubber, the test provided valuable data. "Arriving with our tyres mounted on the bikes as is, without being able to make many adjustments, provided good information for us, for the manufacturers, and for the teams," Barbier explained. "In this way, we established the benchmark we wanted to continue working with. Once the season is over, we can start testing the 850cc bikes, so from now on we needed to have tyres to deliver to the manufacturers that are ready to test the benchmark that worked well in Misano; that’s the tyre we’ll start with in the next tests." A planned test in Valencia following the grand prix was ultimately cancelled to maintain the integrity of the data collected at Misano.

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When questioned about the advantages of Pirelli tyres, Barbier noted, "We still don’t know because it’s a championship with five manufacturers. But from the information we’ve received from riders who have moved from MotoGP to WorldSBK, they point to the front tyre as the strong point. Because of everything it communicates and its good feedback. It speaks to the rider; it allows them to understand track conditions and, consequently, gives them confidence. And that’s very important, because the front end is fundamental for riding."

Pirelli’s extensive experience in other motorcycle racing series, such as WorldSBK and Moto2, will inform their approach to MotoGP. "It’s clear that our DNA is present in all of them, because the manufacturing process is the same," Barbier confirmed. "Therefore, regardless of size, the Pirelli spirit must remain intact, and we want it to stay that way, because it’s what keeps us connected to the market."

As Pirelli ramps up its preparations, communication with MotoGP riders remains a sensitive issue due to contractual obligations with the current tyre supplier. "For the moment we haven’t spoken with them, because we have to respect the contract Dorna has with the current supplier. We don’t want to interfere in the season they still have left," Barbier clarified. "We have our own idea although, obviously, we’ve spoken with the technicians and we’re in contact with the manufacturers’ engineers. We know the environment, we’ve known the paddock people for many years, and we have an idea of how we want to do things in the future."

The transition to Pirelli tyres could present both opportunities and challenges for MotoGP riders. Those with prior experience using Pirelli tyres in Moto2 or WorldSBK might have a slight advantage. "I have great respect for MotoGP riders. I think they won’t have major problems understanding a new tyre," Barbier stated. "What we’ve seen over the years with great riders like Carlos Checa, Troy Bayliss, Alex Barros or Max Biaggi, when they arrived in Superbikes, is that they understood the tyres immediately. Some won their first race very quickly, so I don’t see any major issue from that point of view. What is clear is that those who have more time and more opportunities to test our tyres throughout next year, those riders will have a slight advantage in 2027."

Pirelli’s approach to tyre development in MotoGP will focus on both performance and safety. "This was a key point when we became the sole supplier in Superbikes; since there was no competition, how do I measure my development, my progress? First, I measure it by product quality; that is, that all riders have a similar product that adapts well to their bikes, regardless of the manufacturer," Barbier explained. "Then, we look at the records. If I improve every year, it means I’m doing a good job. So yes, we pay close attention to performance in this sense, and it remains an important indicator for us."

Balancing the pursuit of lap records with rider safety is a priority for Pirelli. "The most important thing at first will be ensuring that all manufacturers and riders work well with us, and that we feed back into each other. Understanding the needs, and establishing with Dorna what limits we want to set for this championship in terms of spectacle," Barbier emphasized. "We have never sought concessions in terms of performance. In WorldSBK, improvements are important. It’s clear that in a world championship of this level, competition, specialisation and high performance are important. We can’t make tyres out of wood or iron to avoid problems. In Moto2 and Moto3, in two years, we have achieved great things – and always safely."

Pirelli is committed to ensuring tyre consistency and quality for all riders. "Quality is a fundamental element, and this is what we explained in detail to Dorna when we began discussing this project," Barbier stated. "In a company that mass-produces a standard product, in thousands of units, quality controls ensuring uniformity are essential. Although it’s possible for a defective tyre to appear, it’s unlikely that there would be a drift producing a large number of poor-quality units. The more units produced, the greater the guarantee of maintaining high levels of quality."

Pirelli’s MotoGP operations will be based in Milan, Italy, at the company’s headquarters, which also houses the Formula 1 division. While F1 tyres are manufactured at a separate plant, Pirelli will leverage its expertise in both racing disciplines. "The synergies mainly come from a working method we’re developing through our relationship with the manufacturers," Barbier explained. "They request data from us that we can provide, also based on our experience in F1, so there will be continuous exchange in that sense." Motorcycle tyre production will remain in Germany, where all radial motorcycle tyres are manufactured.

As Pirelli prepares to take over as the sole tyre supplier for MotoGP in 2027, the company’s focus on performance, safety, and quality will be crucial for the success of the championship. The new technical regulations and the shift in tyre suppliers mark a significant turning point for MotoGP, with Pirelli poised to play a central role in shaping the future of the sport.

The transition to 850cc engines is a notable change, reducing the current 1000cc capacity. This move is intended to improve safety and manageability for riders, potentially leading to closer racing. The reduction in aerodynamics aims to decrease the reliance on downforce, which has become a significant factor in MotoGP in recent years. The removal of dynamic ride-height devices is another step towards simplifying the machinery and reducing the performance gap between manufacturers.

Pirelli’s arrival in MotoGP comes after years of success in WorldSBK, where the company has been the sole tyre supplier since 2004. The experience gained in WorldSBK, Moto2, and Moto3 will be invaluable as Pirelli develops tyres specifically for the unique demands of MotoGP. The company’s commitment to working closely with manufacturers and riders will be essential for ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining the high level of competition that MotoGP is known for.

The next few years will be critical as Pirelli continues its development program and prepares to supply tyres for the 2027 season. The collaboration between Pirelli, Dorna, and the MotoGP teams will determine the direction of the championship and ensure that the sport remains exciting, competitive, and safe for all participants.