How Pirelli is preparing its MotoGP 2027 takeover

In 2027, new technical regulations will come into force in MotoGP, with 850cc engines, reduced aerodynamics, the removal of dynamic ride-height devices, and what everyone points to as the most significant change: Michelin will leave the championship, and Pirelli will become the new sole tyre supplier.

The Milan manufacturer held a test with its first prototypes in Misano last September, and in 2026 it will carry out new tests to finish defining the compounds it will produce for MotoGP. During the recent Valencia GP, Autosport sat down with Giorgio Barbier, racing director of Pirelli’s motorcycle division, the engineer leading the arrival of the Italian company in the premier class.

What stage are you currently at in the MotoGP tyre creation process?

We’re in the initial phase, considering that we’re starting a new project with specific dimensions for MotoGP, which uses larger rims than WorldSBK. On the other hand, 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 went very well, and I didn't want to question it because it was carried out in perfect conditions: two days after the MotoGP race, with the same weather, and a rubbered track. The day before (Monday), they carried out the collective test (IRTA), so everything was perfect in terms of reference points. 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. 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.

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.

It’s clear that our DNA is present in all of them, because the manufacturing process is the same. 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.