MotoGP: Pirelli to become sole tyre supplier in 2027

Pirelli will become the official tyre supplier for MotoGP in 2027 after signing a five-year contract with Dorna.

The switch sees Pirelli replace Michelin, and coincides with the launch of the new MotoGP technical regulations and bikes.

Michelin has been the sole supplier for the premier class since 2016, when it replaced Bridgestone. Pirelli expanded its motorcycle racing project into the Grand Prix paddock last season when it became the sole supplier in Moto3 and Moto2. The new deal also includes Moto.

“The strategy of having a single supplier in the paddock will provide the perfect development ladder for the champions of tomorrow to hone their craft on their way to the top,” a statement from MotoGP said. “Further details on the tyre allocations and specifications to be supplied by Pirelli will be announced soon.

“Over the next two seasons Michelin will continue to provide its technical support, its products and world class technology, assuring the safety, performance and racing which makes MotoGP the most exciting sport on Earth. 
 
“As a pioneer in world-class electric motorcycle racing, Michelin will remain committed to MotoE throughout 2025 and 2026, continuing to innovate and to make its tyres—already featuring a high percentage of renewable and recycled materials—even more sustainable.”

Pirelli’s expanding motorsport catalogue already includes the World Superbike Championship, with a deal in place until the end of the 2026 season, as well as the Bennetts British Superbike Championship. On four wheels, Pirelli is the sole supplier in Formula One until at least the end of 2027.

Michelin has since responded to the confirmation of Pirelli’s arrival in MotoGP with its own statement.

“After several months of discussion regarding the extension of Michelin’s MotoGP contract after the 2026 season, Dorna Sports has decided to select a sole tyre supplier for all classes,” Michelin’s motorsport boss, Piero Taramasso said.

“This means MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, MotoE and also series like the Rookies Cup and their talent cups. Unfortunately, this set-up was not an option for Michelin, which has always prioritised MotoGP and MotoE.

“MotoGP represents the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, and serves to us as a major testing ground for technological innovation. It is the platform where we get experience and gain a lot of data.

“We respect Dorna’s decision, and we remain focused on our role as supplier for the 2025 and 2026 seasons of MotoGP and MotoE, and we will continue to work hand in hand with all our partners.”

When Michelin replaced Bridgestone in 2016, again coinciding with new technical regulations, it led to an enthralling season which had nine different race winners. This included a run of eight consecutive different runners starting with Jorge Lorenzo’s victory at Mugello.

This was followed by a victories for Valentino Rossi in Barcelona, Jack Miller at Assen, Marc Marquez at the Sachsenring, maiden victories for Andrea Iannone at the Red Bull Ring and Cal Crutchlow at Brno, plus British Grand Prix success for Maverick Vinales and Misano joy for Dani Pedrosa.