Michelin has backtracked on its plans to introduce a new front tyre in MotoGP next year.
Despite receiving a positive reaction from riders at the Misano test, Michelin has taken a conservative strategy and opted against introducing the new compounds in 2025.
The news about the change of plans was communicated to teams on Friday ahead of this weekend’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
The French tyre giant had received limited opportunities to run the new tyre this year, with a first planned test at Mugello written off due to bad weather.
Last week’s collective test at Misano provided another opportunity for Michelin to run the new rubber in real-world conditions, but the 30 minutes allotted to it were not deemed sufficient to make a decision that could have major consequences on the pecking order.
MotoGP’s official tyre supplier is now aiming to get more data under its belt next year with the aim of introducing the new compound in 2026, by which time it will be sure that the tyre is suitable for all bikes and conditions.
“After the Misano test we analysed all the results, both the feedback from the riders and the data , and we made the decision that the new front tyre will not be introduced in 2025, as originally planned, but that we will do it at a later stage,” Michelin’s MotoGP director Piero Taramasso explained.
“There are several reasons why we have made this decision. One is that this year we have introduced a new range of compounds, both front and rear, and we have seen, on all the circuits and based on the times, that they work and that they are good both in terms of grip and performance, because we have broken practically all the records.
“However, they have not yet reached their limit, so there is still some room for improvement with these tyres. That is why we have decided to go for continuity and continue with these compounds next season as well.
Piero Taramasso, Michelin
Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images
“Another reason is that the Misano test went well, because the feedback from the riders was pretty much aligned. They all felt that there was potential in this tyre, that there was more grip, and that, although it moves a bit more, it offered good sensations and good feedback.
“However, they also pointed out that the behaviour is different compared to the current rubber, so it takes time to get used to the sensations, and you also have to adapt your riding style. And…
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