Pirelli’s 2027 MotoGP acquisition: Giorgio Barbier lifts the curtain on tire supplier business
The MotoGP landscape is set for a major change in 2027 as Pirelli takes over the role of exclusive tire supplier from Michelin, and Pirelli’s head of motorcycle racing Giorgio Barbier lifts the curtain on the complex financial mechanics that drive the sport’s tire business. Beyond the technical overhaul brought about by the new 850cc machines, Pirelli’s entry has sparked a long-standing debate: what does it really mean to be MotoGP’s sole tire supplier, and who ultimately pays the bill?
Barbier took a rare look at the commercial basis of tire supply in MotoGP, revealing that, contrary to popular belief, it is the tire manufacturer – not the championship – that pays for the privilege of becoming the exclusive supplier. “Always. In every motorcycle or Formula 1 competition, the tire manufacturer pays the promoter,” Barbier said, adding that this arrangement is the norm in the major motorsport categories.
However, the financial model is not straightforward. Barbier elaborated, “The manufacturer can say: I am the sole supplier for MotoGP and pay a fee. For example, six million. But then all the tires cost me 36 million. And those 36 million are paid by you.” He explained that the actual agreements are negotiated between the manufacturer, promoter and teams, covering not only the tyres, but also the huge costs of logistics, transport, staffing and race weekend operations. “The fees are one thing. But there are all the ancillary costs, which are also important. Factory organization, processes… these are negotiations with the promoter,” Barbier explained.
A key note for fans: MotoGP teams do not pay for their own tyres. “It is not anticipated in MotoGP. It happens in Moto3 and Moto2, but not in MotoGP,” confirmed Barbier. In contrast, teams in the Superbike World Championship and Junior Grand Prix classes are required to cover the cost of their tyres.
On the subject of tire cost, Pirelli cannot sell its MotoGP-exclusive tires to the public or disclose their exact price, as the championship mandates an exclusive product, preventing private testing. Nevertheless, Barbier offered a benchmark: a Pirelli Diablo Superbike customer racing rear tire costs around €300. He said, “MotoGP prototypes are built on the same machines and in the same factory as those tyres. Only the materials and some process aspects change. The cost will never vary dramatically.”
With regulation changes anticipated for 2027, Pirelli is already deeply engaged in tire development for the coming 850cc era. Prototypes have been delivered to tire manufacturers, and initial private testing has received encouraging feedback. “We want to understand which bodies are best suited for these bikes and develop a range for next season that meets different needs,” said Barbier. He added, “The fact that all the tires delivered were used shows that manufacturers can work with them. There were no solutions that would be considered impractical.”
Addressing speculation about star rider Marc Márquez, Barbier specifically rejected the notion of designing tires specifically to suit his style: “We don’t want to develop a ‘Márquez tyre.’ “It’s not the way we work or our style.” He emphasized Pirelli’s long-standing philosophy, developed over more than two decades in WorldSBK: “The riders who can provide us with more and better feedback are given more attention, but the goal is always to create a balanced tyre.”
The Italian manufacturer may have a secret weapon in Nicolo Bulega, whose superbike experience with Pirelli could give Ducati an early lead in adopting the new rubber. “In terms of confidence, it’s a big advantage. He’ll have a normal Pirelli feel again,” said Barbier. Early testing with Pirelli allows riders and teams to influence motorcycle development to suit the new tires – another strategic boost.
Pirelli’s arrival not only signals a new era of technological development for MotoGP, but also unprecedented transparency into the sport’s tightly guarded financial structures. As 2027 approaches, anticipation is growing for how this bold partnership will reshape the championship both on and off the track.
Don’t miss a second with the new app where you can watch live timing of MotoGP, Formula 1, NASCAR, IndyCar and much more: just press – Here (Free for all users)
