For its last year as the exclusive tyre supplier to the MotoGP World Championship in 2026, Michelin will simplify the front tyre options available to riders by reducing the number of specifications. This change aims to streamline tyre choices while maintaining performance and safety standards.
Reduction in Front Tyre Choices for Most Races
The adjustment, which has received unanimous approval from all MotoGP stakeholders and the Grand Prix Commission, will cut down the front tyre specifications from three to two at the majority of race events. Although the number of different specifications will decrease, riders will be allotted more tyres per specification, increasing the total quantity of tyres available to them.
Under the new system for 2026, most circuits will feature:
- Two front tyre specifications instead of three as used in 2025
- Seven tyres provided per specification, up from five in 2025
- A total of fourteen front tyres, slightly fewer than the fifteen supplied in the previous season
Maintaining Three-Tyre Options at Weather-Sensitive Tracks
Some venues known for variable weather and temperature conditions will keep the existing tyre allocation, providing three front tyre options with five tyres per specification. The following Grand Prix events will retain this more diverse choice:
- French Grand Prix at Le Mans
- British Grand Prix at Silverstone
- German Grand Prix at Sachsenring
- Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island
- Valencian Grand Prix at Cheste
Michelin’s Ongoing Efforts in Tyre Optimization
Piero Taramasso, Manager of Michelin Two-Wheel Competition, highlighted the continuity of efforts since 2018 to optimize tyre options. He stated,
“With this new rationalisation of the front tyre allocation, we are continuing work that began back in 2018,” Piero Taramasso, Manager of Michelin Two-Wheel Competition.
He also noted the sustained improvements in safety and performance during this time, mentioning,
“Over the past eight MotoGP seasons, Michelin has halved the number of specifications offered to riders, while continuously improving safety and performance across an increasing number of circuits, as demonstrated by the many records that have been set.” Piero Taramasso, Manager of Michelin Two-Wheel Competition.
By comparison, in 2018 there were 58 different front and rear tyre specifications across 19 Grands Prix, whereas 2026 will have 29 specifications for 22 races. This reduction also supports environmental goals by lowering tyre production and transportation needs.
Michelin reaffirmed its dedication to innovation, environmental responsibility, and supporting the competitive integrity of MotoGP, saying,
“Michelin thus reaffirms its commitment to reconciling technological innovation, environmental responsibility and sporting excellence, in the service of MotoGP and all of its stakeholders.” Piero Taramasso, Manager of Michelin Two-Wheel Competition.
Upcoming Changes in MotoGP Tyre Supply
Following the 2026 season, Michelin will hand over the MotoGP tyre supply role to Pirelli. In return, Michelin will replace Pirelli as the tyre supplier for the World Superbike Championship beginning in 2027. This transition marks the end of an era for Michelin’s involvement in MotoGP and signals new developments in championship tyre dynamics.
