Starting in 2027, Pirelli will be the official tire provider for MotoGP, replacing Michelin who has supplied the racing series since the start of the 2016 season. On Tuesday, Pirelli completed a sprint simulation, among other “experiments,” at Misano in preparation for the 2027 season.
Why does this matter, though? Well, starting in 2027, MotoGP will season a sweeping rule change including a reduction in engine size (1000cc to 850cc), reduced aerodynamic aids, removal of ride-height and launch control devices, as well as a reduction in fuel capacity, among other things.
These will likely shake up the MotoGP grid when the green flag waves in 2027, so testing the new rubber supplied by Pirelli is an important part in developing an all-new bike, especially given the reduction in overall downforce that riders have become accustomed to with winglets on the fairing and shark fins on the tail of the GP bikes.