Dorna has confirmed that Italian manufacturer Pirelli will replace Michelin as the official MotoGP tyre supplier starting 2027.
The change coincides with a transformative era for the sport, as new technical regulations and an engine displacement reduction from 1000cc to 850cc are set to debut in the same year.
This marks the end of Michelin’s decade-long tenure as exclusive MotoGP tyre supplier, a role it has held since taking over from Bridgestone in 2016.
The announcement, made on March 6, 2025, by MotoGP’s organizing body Dorna Sports, also revealed that Pirelli has signed a five-year contract extending through the 2031 season.
This agreement will see Pirelli providing tyres not only for MotoGP but also for Moto2, Moto3, and MotoE, as well as feeder series such as the Rookies Cup and other talent development programs.
The unification of tyre suppliers across all classes is aimed at creating a seamless developmental pathway for riders as they progress through the ranks of motorcycle racing.
Pirelli’s appointment as the official MotoGP tyre supplier has been anticipated for some time. The Italian company entered the paddock in 2024 by taking over Dunlop’s role as the sole tyre supplier for Moto2 and Moto3.
The move fueled speculation about Pirelli’s eventual expansion into the premier class and the timing of this transition now aligns with significant changes to MotoGP’s technical framework, which will undoubtedly require teams to adapt their bike designs to optimize performance on new rubber.
Dorna Sports highlighted that the strategic shift is designed to boost competition and safety while maintaining MotoGP’s status as the pinnacle of motorcycle racing.
A statement from Dorna read: “Pirelli will become the official MotoGP tyre supplier from 2027. A new five-year contract until 2031 inclusive, currently being finalised, will coincide with a new era for the sport as new MotoGP bikes and technical regulations debut in 2027.
“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.
“Further details on the tyre allocations and specifications to be supplied by Pirelli will be announced soon.”
Michelin confirms exit
The decision to switch suppliers has not been without controversy. Michelin has faced frequent criticism of its product by riders and teams with the recent altercation coming at the Sepang test after Aprilia linked the manufacturer with Jorge Martin’s crash.
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Michelin, which has been a cornerstone of MotoGP’s technological advancements over the past decade, expressed disappointment at being unable to continue its partnership with the championship.
According to Piero Taramasso, Michelin’s motorsport boss, Dorna’s requirement for a single supplier across all classes was “not an option” for the French manufacturer.
“After several months of discussion regarding the extension of Michelin, Dorna Sports has decided to select a sole tyre manufacturer for all classes,” he 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 MotoE and MotoGP tyre supplier for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, and we will continue to work hand in hand with all our partners.”
Pirelli marks third MotoGP tyre supplier
While there is speculation that Pirelli’s entry is linked to Liberty media’s impending MotoGP takeover, this is not the first major MotoGP tyre supplier change. The last significant switch happened at the end of the 2015 season when Michelin replaced Bridgestone.
That transition coincided with new technical rules mandating standardized electronics systems, which led to one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory. The 2016 campaign saw eight different winners across eight consecutive races, underscoring how changes in tyre dynamics can dramatically alter competitive balance.
For Pirelli, the new role represents an opportunity to showcase its expertise on one of motorsport’s grandest stages. Founded in Milan in 1872, the manufacturer has a decorated history in motorsport and is currently the sole tyre supplier for Formula One—a position it has held since 2011.
The company also supplies tyres for other high-profile series such as World Superbike (WorldSBK) and Formula 2. Its entry as MotoGP tyre supplier solidifies its presence across two of motorsport’s most prestigious championships.
