As the world of MotoGP prepares for a major shift in 2027, rider Pol Espargaro has voiced concerns regarding the lack of awareness among competitors about the upcoming changes. Espargaro, who is currently involved in the development of KTM's new 850cc prototype, has been testing Pirelli's new tyres, which will replace Michelin as the championship's sole supplier.
The transition to Pirelli tyres marks a significant departure from the Michelin rubber that has been utilized since 2016. Espargaro has accumulated considerable experience with the new tyres and has noted that they are fundamentally different from what riders are accustomed to. He stated, "They are very different tyres. And I have the feeling that the riders are not really aware of the change that is coming."
Espargaro's insights are particularly relevant given the experiences of riders in other racing categories. He referenced Toprak Razgatlioglu, who has expressed discomfort with Michelin tyres after racing on Pirelli in World Superbike. Espargaro remarked on the magnitude of the upcoming change, recalling his own transition from Bridgestone to Michelin and emphasizing that the switch to Pirelli is even more drastic. He explained, "The change is wild, much bigger than what we experienced with that change in 2016."
In addition to the tyre switch, Espargaro highlighted the potential impact on rider performance. He recalled the 2024 shift in Moto2 when Pirelli replaced Dunlop, which resulted in varying performances among riders. He anticipates a similar scenario in MotoGP, where the new tyres could significantly alter competitive dynamics. "We could see that riders who were not performing started to perform, and other competitive riders disappeared. And I have no doubt that this is going to happen in MotoGP," he predicted.
Espargaro also speculated on which manufacturers might excel with the new tyres, suggesting that Ducati could have an advantage due to their familiarity with the Superbike category. He noted, "We already know that Ducati is going to be very fast, because it will be a slightly bigger SBK, and they know that category very well."
Furthermore, he pointed out that riders transitioning from production-based classes, such as Razgatlioglu and expected VR46 signing Nicolo Bulega, could also benefit significantly. Espargaro believes that these riders will adapt quickly to the new tyres, stating, "I think the young riders coming up from Moto2 are going to have a very, very big advantage."
As the MotoGP riders prepare for the 2027 season, they will have limited opportunities to acclimate to the new Pirelli tyres. With only a few official tests scheduled, including a December session in Valencia, riders like Fabio Quartararo and Jorge Martin have expressed concerns about the lack of time to adjust. Espargaro remarked, "MotoGP riders are going to have very little time, while Moto2 and SBK riders are going to arrive knowing the tyres very well."
When asked about whether the switch from Michelin to Pirelli would be beneficial or detrimental, Espargaro maintained a neutral stance. He acknowledged that while the bikes may be slower, they would not necessarily lose acceleration. He concluded, "I think not in the first part of the season, but from halfway through the year, when the manufacturers start to reach a good level, the category will become much more even, and with less top speed it will be much more competitive."
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