Pirelli is set to replace Michelin as the official tyre supplier for MotoGP and MotoE from 2027. Currency: Pirelli is the official tyre supplier for Moto2 and Moto3, and most classes are under that. Michelin will continue supplying and developing tyres until the end of the current technical regulation, which will end in 2026.
Why Do Brands Want to Become an Official Tyre Supplier?
Becoming the official tyre supplier for MotoGP or any motorsport gives the tyre brands global exposure, with logos on cars, bikes, tracks and other official materials. Motorsports also serve as a high-pressure testing ground to develop better consumer-grade tyres. The close collaboration with manufacturers builds a long-term industry relationship, often leading to official tyre supplier deals for commercial vehicles.
How did Michelin Benefit?
Michelin has been the official tyre supplier for MotoGP since 2016, and during this time, they made a range of industry-leading tyres based on the testing and data they got from MotoGP. Here’s the list of MotoGP inspired tyres manufactured by Michelin:
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Michelin Power GP
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Michelin Power Cup 2
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Michelin Road 6
These tyres showcase Michelin’s ability to transfer their motorsport technology to consumer products.
Also Read: The Americans are Coming! Cadillac's Entry Into Formula 1
Why did Michelin Back Out?
Michelin wanted to continue its MotoGP tyre supply deal, they were already working on new compounds for the new technical era from 2027 onwards. But Dorna wanted a single tyre supplier for all its series, which did not sit well with Michelin. They wanted to continue supplying tyres to MotoGP and MotoE, but not for Moto2 and Moto3. In the end, Michelin had to back out completely.
No Room for Competition
There was a time in Formula 1 when tyre wars added an extra layer of competition, with multiple suppliers like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Goodyear battling to provide the best rubber. Teams had to strategically align with tyre manufacturers, leading to constant innovation, unpredictable race results, and dramatic shifts in performance. The competition pushed tyre technology to its limits, benefiting the sport and road car development. However, this dynamic has disappeared with F1 moving to a sole-supplier model—currently Pirelli, mainly due to inconsistency in tyre regulation. Ultimately, having a single tyre supplier makes a leveled playing field for all the car manufacturers. If it is a bad thing or a good thing, we will let you judge it.
Conclusion
2026 Michelin and MotoGP will mark a decade of partnership—before parting ways. It’s disappointing to see such a long-standing collaboration end, especially knowing that tyre wars are now a thing of the past. On the bright side, Pirelli’s arrival could lead to developing superior motorcycle road tyres, leveraging the valuable data gathered from MotoGP.
