MotoGP riders split over 2027 weekend format changes

MotoGP's new weekend format for 2027 has divided the grid, with riders clashing over the addition of a second qualifying session and the removal of the Sunday warm-up. The changes, confirmed after a Safety Commission meeting at Motegi, will see 22 races and 22 sprints each season, with a dedicated qualifying session for the sprint race.

Riders divided on qualifying expansion

While some riders welcome the addition of a second qualifying session, others criticize the increased workload and lack of consultation. Ducati's two-time world champion Francesco Bagnaia and Honda rider Luca Marini are among the supporters. Marini stated the change was a team proposal to improve the show. "Having two qualifying sessions is something we had been asking for since the sprint race was introduced into the format," he said. Bagnaia echoed that riders had long requested two sessions.

Opposition is vocal. Gresini rider Alex Marquez criticized the decision-making process, stating it occurred between the championship and teams without rider input. He warned the format introduces more moments of risk. KTM's Pedro Acosta was blunt about rider agency. "It doesn't matter what we think, we haven't been given a choice," Acosta said. Only four riders attended the Motegi meeting where CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta explained the format, and they did not object. Bagnaia noted that with so few present, influencing the decision was very difficult.

Concerns over warm-up removal and sprint load

Several riders question the elimination of the Sunday warm-up and the high number of sprint races. Bagnaia, while liking the overall changes, said he did not like the warm-up disappearing. Acosta questioned the logic of removing it, especially after a Saturday crash. He also proposed cutting the sprint race load in half, suggesting 11 events instead of 22, taking inspiration from Formula 1.

Fabio Quartararo, who will switch from Yamaha to Honda in 2027, was less concerned about the warm-up's removal but highlighted broader preparation issues. He pointed out that with new 850cc bikes and Pirelli tyres, adding extra track time is not ideal. He suggested MotoGP look at how other series manage track time, noting riders currently spend too much time on circuit.

Quartararo highlights preparation challenges

Fabio Quartararo notes he has not yet tested the 2027-spec Honda bike or the new Pirelli tyres. This lack of familiarity amplifies his concern about the added track time under the revised format. He stated that adding 30 more minutes of calm practice, ideally making FP2 an hour instead of 30 minutes, would be beneficial for proper setup and rider comfort.

Marini sees potential in format evolution

Luca Marini views the changes as a positive step for MotoGP's growth, driven by teams to enhance the show and fan engagement. He expressed hope that fans would enjoy the evolved format and understand MotoGP's standing in motorsport. His view contrasts sharply with colleagues who see the changes as an imposed burden.

The new format will take effect in the 2027 season, with riders continuing to adapt to the revised weekend structure.