MotoGP reveals 2027 pre-season testing
MotoGP's 2027 pre-season testing will be just six days, with only four days for non-rookies before the new 850cc era begins.
MotoGP has announced its pre-season testing plans for the 2027 championship. The schedule is condensed to just six total days of running, with only four days available for riders who are not rookies.
The series revealed the dates as it prepares for a major shift in technical regulations. This includes the introduction of 850cc engines, new chassis and electronics rules, and a switch to Michelin as the sole tyre supplier. Despite these sweeping changes, manufacturers will have one fewer day of testing overall compared to recent seasons.
Testing Schedule and Locations
The pre-season will begin with a Shakedown test at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia on January 29 and 30. This session is restricted to test riders and rookies only.
It will be followed immediately by the main Sepang test on January 31 and February 1. This two-day session is open to the entire field. In recent years, this test has lasted for three days. The back-to-back scheduling means some riders will be on track for four consecutive days from January 29 through February 1.
The final pre-season track running will occur at the Buriram circuit in Thailand on February 6 and 7. This offers teams a last chance to run their new 850cc prototypes. The gap between the Sepang and Buriram tests has been significantly reduced for 2027. This leaves little room for manufacturers to implement developments based on data gathered in Malaysia.
Official Season Launch
Following the on-track tests, the official season launch event is scheduled for February 21 in Rio de Janeiro. This marks the ceremonial start to MotoGP's new 850cc era.
The full 2027 race calendar has not yet been released. Motorsport.com reports that complex situations in the Middle East have contributed to delays. However, it has been confirmed that the racing season will begin with the Thailand Grand Prix on March 5-7.
Valencia Post-Season Test
The Sepang tests will not be the first opportunity for teams to run their 2027 machinery. As per tradition, a one-day test will follow the final race of the 2026 season at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia. That test is scheduled for December 1.
The 2027 pre-season testing schedule is as follows:
| Test | Dates |
|---|---|
| Shakedown Test | 29 - 30 January |
| Sepang Test | 31 January to 1 February |
| Buriram Test | 6 to 7 February |
| Season Launch | 21 February |
Teams now have a clear, though tight, timeline to prepare their new-generation machines for the track.
