The MotoGP paddock is preparing for a historic change. Lucio Cecchinello, now president of IRTA (the association representing private teams), has confirmed the signing of a major agreement between Dorna Sports and the six independent teams, ensuring the stability of the championship until 2031.
This new agreement, covering the period 2027-2031, fundamentally redefines the structure of MotoGP — and eliminates the divide between factory and satellite teams. The LCR boss is adamant: a new era is dawning for independent MotoGP teams.
In an exclusive interview with GPOne.com, CecchinelloThe boss also officially confirmed the news:
« All the details of the new contracts between Dorna and the independent teams have been finalized. The teams have formally given their agreement and accepted all the details. I am very proud that all the teams have decided to continue and that we have reached an agreement with DornaThe rest is now just a legal formality. »
The announcement marks the end of several months of negotiations regarding the economic model of MotoGP post-2026. The text notably seals the continuity of the six current independent structures, while adapting their rights and obligations to the future 850cc engine regulations planned for 2027.
Lucio Cecchinello announces the end of the “satellite” status: a structural revolution
One of the most significant changes introduced by the new agreement is the elimination of the distinction between factory teams and satellite teams. From 2027, all will simply be referred to as “teams,” following the governance model of the Formula 1.
« That's correct, and that's good news for us. All existing satellite teams will thus gain in importance ", has explained Cecchinello.
Theoretically, this reform opens the door to a new scenario: teams capable of design or assemble their own motorcycleby purchasing chassis from specialists like Kalex or Boscoscuro, and integrating engines from partner manufacturers.
More Cecchinello immediately tempers this ambitious vision:
« As a team manager and passionate driver, I support such an idea; I would be very much in favor of it. But in reality, today, almost No team possesses the necessary skills and resources to build a chassis and design all the aerodynamics. »
In other words, MotoGP will not switch overnight to a second F1 model — but this standardization of legal status opens the way to more autonomy and recognition for private teams.
Lucio Cecchinello, who succeeded Hervé Poncharal Upon assuming the presidency of IRTA in June, he discovered the demanding reality of this role:
« Fortunately, since the start of the European Grand Prix this season, I'm sleeping in the paddock again because I've been given a driver's room.This saves me at least an hour and a half a day that I used to spend going back and forth between the hotel and the circuit. »
This admission illustrates the level of total commitment required by this role. The former Italian driver also paid tribute to his predecessor:
« I now admire Hervé Poncharalwho brilliantly performed this function for 20 years »
With this agreement, IRTA and Dorna ensure the contractual stability of MotoGP until 2031. This common basis between factory and independent teams aims to guarantee greater competitive fairness and strengthen the long-term economic viability of the championship.
« We have found a balance. This model ensures that all teams — regardless of their affiliation — are recognized at their true value »
As the discipline prepares for the entry into the 850cc era and tires PirelliThis new contract marks a pivotal moment: MotoGP is transforming, and private teams will no longer be extras — but full partners in the fastest competition in the world.
