Why Michelin Is Leaving MotoGP After the 2026 Season

Michelin will end its role as MotoGP's sole tyre supplier after the 2026 season following Dorna Sports' decision to introduce a unified tyre supplier across every level of Grand Prix motorcycle racing.

From the 2027 season, Pirelli will become the exclusive tyre supplier not only for MotoGP, but also Moto2, Moto3, MotoE, the Red Bull Rookies Cup, and the Talent Cups. The move is part of Dorna's long-term strategy to create a consistent development ladder from junior categories to the premier class.

Michelin chose not to continue under the new structure because it does not align with the company's motorsport philosophy. The French manufacturer has consistently focused its racing programme on the highest level of competition, using MotoGP and MotoE as platforms for advanced tyre development.

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Piero Taramasso, Michelin's two-wheel motorsport manager, explained that supplying every championship was "not an option" for the company. According to Michelin, MotoGP represents the pinnacle of motorcycle racing and serves as a technology laboratory where innovations are developed before being transferred to production tyres.

The supplier change also coincides with MotoGP's major technical regulation overhaul in 2027, when the championship will introduce new 850cc engines. Dorna has used the regulatory reset as an opportunity to establish a single tyre manufacturer throughout the entire Grand Prix pyramid, giving riders a consistent tyre platform as they progress through the categories.

Despite its departure, Michelin has reaffirmed its commitment to completing its current agreement professionally. The French manufacturer will remain MotoGP's exclusive tyre supplier until the conclusion of the 2026 season before officially handing over the role to Pirelli in 2027.