The 2027 MotoGP season will see significant changes as the premier class transitions from 1000cc to 850cc engines, eliminates ride-height devices, reduces aerodynamic features, and adopts Pirelli tyres instead of Michelin. Alongside this technical overhaul, many riders are approaching contract expirations after 2026, setting the stage for notable shifts in the 2027 MotoGP rider line-up.
Current Confirmed Riders for 2027
At present, just three riders have secured confirmed seats for the 2027 MotoGP season. These include two Honda riders: Johann Zarco at LCR, and Diogo Moreira, who will advance to the premier class in 2026 on a multi-year deal alongside Zarco. The third confirmed rider is Toprak Razgatlioglu, entering MotoGP with Pramac Yamaha in 2026. Razgatlioglu, armed with experience on the V4 Yamaha, is expected to utilize his familiarity with Pirelli tyres for a stronger 2027 campaign. He may also share the grid with Superbike World Champion rival Nicolo Bulega, who begins Ducati MotoGP testing in 2026 while still competing in WorldSBK and is tipped to move to the premier class the following year.
Another promising young talent, Fermin Aldeguer from Gresini Racing, anticipates Ducati exercising his 2027 contract option after impressive performances including a win at Mandalika in 2025. However, Aldeguer’s chances of joining an official Ducati factory team suffered a setback due to a leg fracture sustained during winter training, potentially keeping him with a satellite squad in 2027.
Factory Teams Still Negotiating Key Rider Contracts
As of now, all five factory teams have yet to finalize their 2027 rider line-ups. Marc Marquez, the reigning MotoGP champion, currently holds a contract until the end of the 2026 season but recently indicated he is close to signing a new two-year deal with Ducati during the 2026 pre-season launch. Ducati management has emphasized that securing Marquez’s signature remains their top priority ahead of contract talks with Francesco Bagnaia and other Desmosedici riders.
Meanwhile, at the Sepang Shakedown test, unexpected reports emerged of Fabio Quartararo reportedly signing with Honda, even as he tested the latest Yamaha V4. This situation fuels questions about the futures of other recent champions such as Jorge Martin and Joan Mir. Martin attempted to leave Aprilia for Honda but remains with Aprilia, whose bike has grown into the second-best machine after Ducati. Speculation persists that Martin might occupy Quartararo’s potential vacancy at Yamaha, should the latter move to Honda. Mir finished strong with Honda in 2025; however, if Quartararo’s switch is confirmed, Honda Racing Corporation’s roster appears nearly full, with Luca Marini impressing the team and securing one of the limited seats.
Opportunities and Uncertainties for Rising Stars and Veterans
KTM unveiled its new 850cc engine early, prioritizing the retention of young star Pedro Acosta. Despite this, Acosta is reportedly considering a switch to Ducati’s factory outfit rather than joining the VR46 squad. Such a move would force Ducati to reconsider the placement of current rider Francesco Bagnaia, with Aprilia or Yamaha emerging as possible alternatives for him.
Alex Marquez, who finished as the 2025 title runner-up, may pursue a return to full factory status, a position he last held during his rookie 2020 season with Repsol Honda. Veteran Maverick Vinales, renowned for his wins with Suzuki, Yamaha, and Aprilia, is also linked with filling a factory ride at KTM, where he has impressed the Austrian team before enduring a shoulder injury in the previous season.
Rider Contract Status and Team Strategies Underway
Overall, the 2027 season is shaping up to feature significant roster changes driven by expiring contracts and strategic moves linked to the new technical regulations. Factory teams like Ducati, Honda, Aprilia, KTM, and Yamaha face complex decisions as they balance rider experience, emerging talent, and the challenges presented by a new engine format and tyre supplier. The coming months will be critical as negotiations become public, shaping the competitive landscape for one of MotoGP’s most transformative seasons in years.
