MotoGP, Sportrik Media - MotoGP manufacturers have expressed a positive outlook following a key meeting with Liberty Media during the United States Grand Prix weekend, potentially paving the way for long-awaited 2027 rider contract announcements.
The discussions come at a critical stage, with eight months remaining in the current 1000cc era and no final agreement yet signed for manufacturer participation from 2027 onward. Leading manufacturers—including Ducati, Aprilia Racing, KTM, Honda, and Yamaha—have been negotiating collectively with MotoGP’s commercial rights holder under Liberty Media’s structure.
This unified approach marks a strategic shift, with manufacturers seeking a more favourable distribution of television revenue, aligned closer to the Formula 1 model. In addition, they are pushing for longer-term guarantees regarding grid slots, extending beyond the traditional five-year agreements that have defined previous cycles.
In return, MotoGP’s commercial leadership is understood to be requesting stronger commitments from manufacturers in promoting and marketing the championship globally, reflecting Liberty Media’s broader strategy to expand the sport’s commercial reach.
Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola offered a cautiously positive update following the meeting, while refraining from disclosing specific details.
“We had a meeting, and it was a good one. We were happy with how it went.”
“We also met Liberty’s leadership, so now we move forward.”
The meeting brought together key decision-makers, including Liberty Media CEO Derek Chang, MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta, and senior figures from across the manufacturer landscape. Their presence underlined the significance of the discussions in shaping MotoGP’s future structure.
From a strategic perspective, the absence of a signed agreement has been a major factor delaying confirmation of several high-profile rider moves for the 2027 season. Multiple transfers widely reported within the paddock remain unannounced, including potential switches involving Pedro Acosta, Francesco Bagnaia, and Fabio Quartararo.
In addition, the future of reigning champion Marc Marquez remains a focal point, with expectations of a contract extension forming part of Ducati’s longer-term planning.
The prevailing theory is that early confirmation of rider deals could weaken the manufacturers’ negotiating position. As a result, announcements have been strategically delayed until greater clarity is achieved regarding the commercial and regulatory framework for the next era.
Despite this, technical development for 2027 is already underway. KTM and Honda have tested prototype versions of the upcoming 850cc machines, while other manufacturers continue development internally. This indicates that preparation for the new regulations is progressing in parallel with ongoing commercial negotiations.
Some movement in the rider market has already taken place. Aprilia has secured a new deal for Marco Bezzecchi, while Yamaha and Honda have existing commitments with selected riders for the upcoming seasons.
With the Qatar Grand Prix postponed, the extended break in the calendar provides a strategic window to finalise outstanding agreements. Should a breakthrough be achieved in the near term, it could trigger a wave of official rider announcements ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix at Jerez.
As the 2026 MotoGP season continues, the outcome of these negotiations will play a defining role in shaping the championship’s long-term structure. Beyond the commercial framework, the decisions made in this phase will directly influence competitive balance and the evolving dynamics of the rider market in the next era of MotoGP.
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