MotoGP, Michelin 2026: Less tires, more show!

Fewer tires, more show

True to its "do more with less" philosophy, Michelin Motorsport is evolving its tire allocation by reducing the number of specifications offered at the majority of Grands Prix, while simultaneously refining their distribution. Part of a strategy focused on sustainability and resource optimization, this approach once again demonstrates Michelin's capacity for innovation. The French manufacturer is pursuing a gradual and controlled reduction in the number of tires used, a move consistent with its ambition to limit its environmental footprint in every championship in which it participates, without ever compromising top-level performance. This decision, defined in consultation with the teams as well as with Dorna Sports, IRTA, and MSMA, has been officially approved by the Grand Prix Commission.

So, For the new season, drivers will have two front tire specifications available for the majority of Grands Prix, compared to three in 2025.In return, The allocation per motorcycle increases to seven tires per specification, compared to five in previous seasons..

In total, each machine will receive 14 front tires per Grand Prix weekend (compared to 15 in 2025). This change translates into a significant reduction in Michelin's carbon footprint, with nearly 500 racing tires saved in manufacturing, transport and recycling over the course of the season.

This new allocation nevertheless offers greater strategic freedom to teams and drivers, thanks to an increased number of tires from the specification best suited to their driving style, according to the characteristics specific to each circuit.

"With this new rationalization of front tire allocation, we are continuing work that began in 2018."explain Piero Taramasso, head of two-wheeled competition at Michelin. “Over the past eight MotoGP seasons, Michelin has halved the number of tire specifications available to riders, while continuously improving safety and performance on an increasing number of circuits, as evidenced by the numerous records set. By comparison, the 2018 season featured 58 different front and rear tire specifications for 19 Grands Prix, compared to 27 specifications in 2026 for 22 races. This ongoing optimization has allowed us to progressively reduce the volume of tires manufactured, transported, and then recycled. Michelin thus reaffirms its commitment to reconciling technological innovation, sporting performance, and environmental responsibility.”

For most Grands Prix, each driver will have 14 front tires (7 of each compound) and 12 rear tires (7 of the softest compound and 5 of the hardest). Regarding rain tires, the allocation remains fixed at 6 front and 7 rear tires, divided into two specifications (Soft and Medium). Each driver will be able to use a total of 10 front and 12 rear tires during the three days of track activity at each Grand Prix.

While rear tires are almost always asymmetrical, meaning they are made of two different rubber compounds reinforced differently depending on the number of right or left turns, front tires are almost always symmetrical. Three exceptions remain during the season: the Sachsenring (Germany), Phillip Island (Australia), and Valencia (Spain). In these specific cases, the tread combines two different compounds in a 2/3 – 1/3 ratio.

An exception for circuits sensitive to weather conditions

For circuits particularly exposed to meteorological uncertainty and temperature variations, the allocation will remain the same as in the 2025 season, in order to guarantee safety, performance and sporting fairness.

The Grand Prix in question are:

• Michelin Grand Prix of France (Le Mans)

• British Grand Prix (Silverstone)

• German Grand Prix (Sachsenring)

• Australian Grand Prix (Phillip Island)

• Grand Prix of the Valencian Community (Cheste)

For these events, three front tire specifications will be maintained, with an allocation of five tires per specification.

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Interview with Piero Taramasso, Head of Two-Wheeled Competition at Michelin Motorsport:

How do you design tires capable of responding to all track conditions, including with multiple race formats such as Sprint and Grand Prix?

“MotoGP is probably one of the most demanding environments in motorsport. Since the introduction of Sprint races in 2023, riders have had to ride almost at qualifying pace over a distance equivalent to half a Grand Prix on Saturday, then manage a distance twice as long on Sunday, sometimes in different weather conditions. To meet these demands, we had to develop extremely versatile tires—capable of delivering a very high level of performance from the very first corners, while guaranteeing perfect consistency over time. These qualities may seem contradictory, but we rose to the challenge. This requires a high level of anticipation, a detailed analysis of both motorcycle and track data, and a precise understanding of the constraints. Ultimately, this dual race format perfectly showcases the robustness of our solutions.”

How do you manage to offer tires with equivalent performance for very different motorcycles, while still promoting a spectacular show on the track?

“This is undoubtedly one of our biggest challenges in MotoGP. Our goal has never been to favor one manufacturer or riding style, but to create the conditions for an open championship where everyone can express their potential. The bikes rely on a variety of technologies and the riders have very different profiles, yet we must provide a single, high-performing tire offering for everyone.”

The availability of multiple constructions and compounds plays a crucial role here: it allows teams and drivers to adapt their strategy, make technical choices, and make the most of the tire package. When victory is decided in the final corners, we can consider that this balance has been achieved—and Michelin is truly proud to contribute to it.

What is your perspective, as manager, on the eve of this final season, after a continuous presence since 2016?

“Looking back, what I remember most is the human and collective dimension of this adventure. Of course, there's the performance, the records, and the impressive technological progress. But none of this would have been possible without the total commitment of the Michelin Motorsport teams. The close relationship our teams have with everyone involved in MotoGP is crucial. This sincere and responsible commitment, serving one of the greatest spectacles in motorsport, combined with a constant desire to progress while respecting the spirit of competition, simply reflects the DNA of Michelin Motorsport.”