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| Michelin Cancels 2026 MotoGP Front Tire Launch Ahead of Exit, Confirms Current Tire Will Remain Until 2026. |
After years of development and anticipation, Michelin has officially announced that it will not introduce its new front tire for the 2026 MotoGP season. The decision comes following the final test session at Aragon and a strategic evaluation of Michelin’s long-term involvement in the sport.
“After analyzing all the results from the Aragon test and considering our upcoming departure from MotoGP at the end of 2026, we decided not to introduce the new front tire,” said Piero Taramasso, Michelin’s Two-Wheel Motorsport Manager, during the Dutch Grand Prix weekend at Assen.
Why Michelin Decided to Cancel the New Front Tire
Although the new tire received positive feedback from many riders during test sessions, Michelin concluded that introducing an entirely new front tire for just one season would not be a wise move. The decision was made collaboratively, involving feedback from riders, teams, and Dorna (the MotoGP organizer).
“Several riders liked the new front, others didn’t, but overall, everyone felt the potential,” Taramasso added. “Still, we all agreed it was better to finish with the current front tire model until our exit in 2026.”
A Tire Built for the Future of MotoGP
Michelin’s next-generation front slick was specifically designed to handle the extra loads caused by modern MotoGP’s aerodynamic devices and ride-height systems. One of the highlights of this tire was its ability to perform more consistently in high-temperature situations, such as riding behind another bike.
Despite being physically larger, the tire was engineered to be lighter than the current model, aiming to balance improved stability and handling without adding weight.
Delay and Final Decision After Aragon Test
Initially, the tire was set to debut earlier—potentially even before 2026. However, limited testing opportunities caused repeated delays. The Aragon test was considered the final opportunity to validate the tire before committing to its launch.
At the time, Taramasso stated that about 60% of riders were in favor of the new tire. But Michelin insisted it needed to ensure the tire would be compatible with all riders and all manufacturers to maintain fairness and balance across the grid.
“We don’t want to give an unfair advantage to one rider or one brand,” said Taramasso before the test.
Pirelli Takeover Changes the Game
Another factor that heavily influenced Michelin’s decision was the announcement that Pirelli will become MotoGP’s exclusive tire supplier starting in 2027. With just one year left in the contract, Michelin felt the effort and risk involved in rolling out a new front tire were not justified.
Instead, the current front tire, despite being pushed to its limits in recent seasons, will remain in use until the end of 2026.
Michelin’s Future Plans: World Superbike in 2027
Though the MotoGP tire won’t be launched, Michelin has confirmed that the technology developed for the next-gen front tire won’t go to waste. The company plans to adapt and apply this innovation in other championships, especially as they become the official tire supplier for the World Superbike Championship starting in 2027.
“This new technology will inspire our future tires. We’ll carry it into our next racing projects,” Taramasso emphasized.
Stability Over Experimentation in MotoGP’s Final Michelin Year
In conclusion, while the cancellation may disappoint fans and tech enthusiasts, Michelin’s choice reflects a strategic, long-term vision. Keeping the current tire ensures stability for riders and teams as MotoGP prepares for the upcoming transition to Pirelli in 2027.
For now, MotoGP fans can expect the current Michelin front tire to remain in place—even as the sport continues to push its machines and components to new limits.
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