Michelin explains why it rejected MotoGP’s sole tyre supplier plan

Michelin motorsport boss Piero Taramasso says Dorna’s unified tyre supply plan was not an option for the company.

Piero Taramasso of Italy, Michelin manager, speaks with journalists during the 2017 MotoGP pre-season testing at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit on February 16, 2017, in Phillip Island, Australia. Photo by Mirco Lazzari/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Michelin’s motorsport boss, Piero Taramasso, has stated that MotoGP’s decision to implement a single tyre supplier across all classes from 2027 was "not an option" for the French manufacturer.

On Thursday, March 6, MotoGP confirmed that Pirelli would take over as the exclusive tyre supplier from the 2027 season, aligning all grand prix categories under a single brand. This move follows Dorna Sports' decision to standardize tyre supply across MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, and MotoE, as well as feeder series like the Rookies Cup and Talent Cup.

Michelin has supplied tyres for MotoGP since 2016, while Pirelli has been the exclusive supplier for Moto2 and Moto3 since 2023. Despite negotiations for a contract renewal beyond 2026, Michelin opted against continuing under the new unified structure proposed by Dorna.

Michelin’s stance on MotoGP’s tyre supplier overhaul

Following MotoGP’s official announcement, Taramasso elaborated on Michelin’s decision, emphasizing that the company's priority has always been the premier class and MotoE.

"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," Taramasso said.

"So, this means MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, MotoE, and also the series like Rookies Cup and Talent Cup.

"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 it serves as a measured testing ground for all technological innovation.

"It’s the platform where Michelin develops expertise, gathers data, and sets records in collaboration with manufacturers and the best riders in the world.

"We respect Dorna’s position and remain focused on our role as the tyre supplier for the 2025 and 2026 seasons in MotoE and MotoGP. We will continue to work hand in hand with our partners."

Pirelli’s growing influence in motorcycle racing

Pirelli’s appointment as MotoGP’s sole tyre supplier marks a significant expansion of its role in grand prix racing. The Italian manufacturer took over from Dunlop as the exclusive supplier for Moto2 and Moto3 in 2023, leading to speculation that it could eventually enter the premier class.

The company also serves as the sole tyre provider for the World Superbike Championship, with its current contract running until the end of 2026. However, it remains unclear how Pirelli’s MotoGP expansion will impact its ongoing commitments in WorldSBK.

Pirelli’s role in global motorsport

Beyond motorcycle racing, Pirelli has an extensive presence in motorsport, notably as the exclusive tyre supplier for Formula 1. Its current F1 contract extends until the end of 2027, with an option for further extension.

With its growing influence across MotoGP, WorldSBK, and Formula 1, questions remain about how Pirelli will manage its commitments across multiple top-tier championships. The transition from Michelin to Pirelli in MotoGP will be closely watched, especially as the series moves to an 850cc engine formula in 2027, introducing further technical challenges for tyre development.