Pirelli to Replace Michelin as MotoGP Tyre Supplier in 2027
MotoGP will enter a new era in 2027, as Pirelli has been officially confirmed as the championship’s exclusive tyre supplier, replacing Michelin after more than a decade. The announcement marks a significant shift in the technical landscape of motorcycle racing’s premier class and follows a detailed tender process conducted by series organisers.
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Michelin has been MotoGP’s sole tyre supplier since 2016, when it took over from Bridgestone. The French brand has played a central role in shaping the sport’s modern era, delivering improved grip and adaptability to suit MotoGP’s increasingly powerful machines. However, from 2027, responsibility for tyre development and supply will move to Pirelli, an Italian company with a long-standing history in motorsport.
Pirelli is no stranger to world championship racing. The brand already supplies tyres across World Superbike, World Supersport, and various junior classes, where it has earned a reputation for consistency and innovation. Its entry into MotoGP represents both a new challenge and an opportunity to expand its influence into the most prestigious motorcycle racing series in the world.
The tender for MotoGP’s tyre supply opened last year, with manufacturers required to demonstrate not only performance capability but also sustainability commitments and long-term development plans. Pirelli’s proposal was deemed the most competitive, combining strong technical expertise with a clear roadmap for future tyre innovation. This includes continued work on durability, eco-friendly compounds, and performance suited to the rising demands of modern prototypes.
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For riders and teams, the switch to Pirelli will bring both excitement and uncertainty. While Michelin has set the standard for nearly a decade, the transition to a new supplier will inevitably require adaptation in bike set-ups, riding styles, and race strategies. The 2027 season is therefore likely to be one of learning and experimentation as competitors adjust to the new rubber.
Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO of MotoGP rights holder Dorna Sports, praised Michelin for its contribution to the championship, while welcoming Pirelli as the future partner. He emphasised that the Italian brand’s proven success in global racing makes it well-suited to meet MotoGP’s demands.
With Pirelli stepping in, MotoGP continues its evolution, blending tradition with innovation. As the sport approaches this major change, anticipation will build over how the new tyres influence performance, competition, and the balance of power across the grid.