The MotoGP tests at Brno have raised many questions. For the first time, several riders took to the handlebars of the future 850cc MotoGP bikes equipped with the Pirelli tires that will come into effect in 2027. Yet, no media outlets were granted access to the circuit. No official images. No detailed press releases. This secrecy quickly fueled criticism, with some accusing Michelin of trying to prevent any comparison with its future competitor. The French manufacturer is now responding clearly.
When asked about this decision on GP One, Michelin's head of competition, Piero Taramasso, assures that this choice was never imposed unilaterally.
« In any championship, this kind of decision is never made by a single party. It's a shared choice between the tire supplier, the promoter, IRTA, and MSMA. The discussion was very brief because It was simply a matter of common sense. »
According to TaramassoThe reason is primarily contractual. Michelin remains the official supplier of MotoGP until the end of the 2026 season. Pirelli will take over from 2027. Conversely, in WorldSBK, Pirelli is still under contract until the end of 2026 before handing over his position to Michelin.
« Contracts must be respected.In Superbike, when Michelin conducts tests to prepare for its entry, these also take place behind closed doors. Today, the roles are simply reversed. »
Taramasso, Michelin: “ Nothing unusual or strange was decided »
The French official also points out that Michelin had already proceeded in exactly the same way during his own private tests at Aragon that holds the top spot. " We tested the official motorcycles behind closed doors. We released no photos or statements. We didn't ask for anything more than what is usually done. »
Another point of contention: several drivers expected to switch manufacturers reportedly wanted to try out the tires. Pirelli on their current 1000cc MotoGP bikes in order to establish direct comparisons.
Here again, Michelin refutes any intention of obstruction suspected by Pecco Bagnaia ... " I was surprised to hear that.This decision is also a collective one. These tests are in preparation for 2027. It therefore makes sense to use the 2027 motorcycles with the 2027 tires.. " For Taramasso, a comparison with current machines would simply have no technical value.
The upcoming regulations will profoundly change MotoGP: engine displacement reduced to 850cc, lower power output, revised weight, and numerous technical upgrades. Tire testing Pirelli on a 2026 machine could produce misleading data.
« What would be the point of using 2026 motorcycles with 2027 tires? The motorcycles will be completely different. We would be getting incorrect information. »
The manager of Michelin He concluded by stating that the controversy was largely disproportionate. All of this is simply a matter of logical choices.This is standard practice in all major championships, both for cars and motorcycles. Nothing unusual or strange has been decided. »
Beyond the debates, this response primarily highlights an often-forgotten reality: the development of the future 850cc MotoGP bikes has now entered a highly strategic phase. Eighteen months before the regulation change, each manufacturer is protecting its data, while Michelin et Pirelli ensure that they comply with contractual commitments which continue to place them, until the end of 2026, in a situation of indirect competition.
