MotoGP is set for a major technical overhaul in 2027, featuring a reduction in engine size from 1000cc to 850cc, the elimination of ride height adjustment devices, less aerodynamic influence, and a switch from Michelin to Pirelli tires. Starting from 2026, most riders will see their contracts expire, which could lead to a significant reshuffle of the grid.
So far, only three riders have confirmed seats for the 2027 season. Two of them are Honda riders: Johann Zarco, who will join LCR, and Diogo Moreira, who will move up to the premier class on a multi-year deal beginning in 2026. The third confirmed rider is Toprak Razgatlioglu, who will debut in MotoGP next season with Pramac Yamaha. Razgatlioglu, after spending a season on the new V4 M1, aims to leverage his Pirelli tire experience in 2027, anticipating a possible MotoGP arrival for WorldSBK rival Nicolo Brega, who will start a Ducati MotoGP testing role in 2026 with a potential full-time ride in 2027.
Gresini’s Fermin Aldeguer hopes Ducati will activate his 2027 contract option after his strong race performance at Mandalica in 2025, though a foot injury during winter training has put his promotion chances at risk, likely keeping him with the satellite team. Interestingly, none of the five factory teams have officially signed their riders yet, with current contracts for stars like reigning champion Marc Marquez running only until the end of 2026. Marquez, however, has indicated he is close to agreeing on a new two-year deal with Ducati, who prioritize re-signing him before addressing contracts for Francesco Bagnaia and others.
In a surprising move, reports emerged on the first day of Sepang testing that Fabio Quartararo has signed with Honda before even riding the latest Yamaha V4. Meanwhile, fellow champions Jorge Martin (Aprilia) and Joan Mir (Honda) face uncertain futures—Martin is trying to switch from Aprilia to Honda and might fill Quartararo’s spot at Yamaha, while Mir remains a solid contender for Honda’s lineup.
KTM has begun testing its new 850cc engine, with a focus on retaining young talent Pedro Acosta, who, however, has strong ties to Ducati. Should Acosta target a factory team over VR46, it raises questions about Francesco Bagnaia’s destination, possibly moving to Aprilia.
Here’s a summary of the contract statuses for 2027 so far: Razgatlioglu, Zarco, and Moreira have confirmed deals extending into 2027 or beyond. Other major names, including Marquez, Bagnaia, Acosta, Quartararo, Martin, Mir, and several others, mostly hold contracts expiring at the end of 2026 or have uncertain futures.
Fan Take:
This shake-up represents a pivotal moment for MotoGP, as it could redefine team line-ups and rider dynamics ahead of a technical revolution designed to enhance competition and safety. Racing fans should brace for a thrilling period of transition that promises fresh rivalries and a potential rebalancing of the grid’s power structure, keeping the sport as electrifying as ever.
