Michelin, the title partner of the French Grand Prix and long-time technical supplier of MotoGP, has confirmed it will not renew its partnership with Dorna Sports beyond the 2026 season. From 2027, the Clermont-Ferrand-based manufacturer will be replaced by Pirelli, marking a significant shift in the motorcycle racing landscape.
The “All-or-Nothing” Package The decision was primarily driven by the new commercial and technical requirements proposed by Dorna. According to Piero Taramasso, Michelin’s Two-Wheel Motorsport Manager, the promoter offered an “all-encompassing” deal that included not only the premier MotoGP class but also Moto2, Moto3, and the Rookies Cup.
Furthermore, the discontinuation of the e-Moto category—a key innovation pillar for Michelin—played a decisive role in the exit. “This [expanded package] no longer suited our strategy,” Taramasso explained.
Strategic Realignment: WorldSBK 2027 Instead of maintaining its presence in the prototype-heavy MotoGP paddock, Michelin will join the World Superbike Championship (WorldSBK) in 2027. This move is a calculated marketing play aimed at commercial relevance.
Unlike MotoGP’s purpose-built prototypes, Superbikes are based on production models. Michelin justifies this transition by stating that the category is “closer and more natural” to the road tires consumers purchase, allowing for a more direct transfer of technology and brand messaging from the track to the street.