Pirelli Completes 2027 MotoGP Tire Test in Austria

Pirelli has moved forward with its development program for the 2027 MotoGP season, completing a key test at Austria's Red Bull Ring. The tire manufacturer, set to become the championship's exclusive supplier in 2027, gathered feedback from 18 racing and test riders across all five manufacturers.

Eighteen riders participated in the sunny test, which included several rookies. The full list of riders who took part is as follows:

Test Format and Conditions

Stable, sunny weather provided ideal conditions, with track temperatures ranging from 19 to 38 degrees Celsius. Teams were free to define their own programs, though Pirelli recommended a progressive approach. This meant starting with the soft compound slick tires before moving on to the medium and hard options.

The test was unique for its use of two different machine types. Riders evaluated tires using both prototype 850cc motorcycles, which align with the future 2027 technical regulations, and current-generation 1000cc bikes that were specially adapted to simulate the upcoming configuration.

Pirelli's Development Roadmap

Giorgio Barbier, Pirelli's Motorcycle Racing Director, stated the test was a significant step. Today's session at the Red Bull Ring represents another step forward in the development of the Pirelli range for the 2027 FIM Grand Prix World Championship, Barbier said. He noted the program includes both collective tests and private development work with manufacturers.

Barbier highlighted the value of input from rookie riders, who brought different perspectives and riding approaches to the evaluation. The feedback focused on the performance of soft, medium, and hard compound slick tires at both the front and rear.

Positive Feedback and Next Steps

According to Pirelli, the overall rider feedback was positive. The company reported that the tested solutions showed strong performance, particularly for grip and stability. The data collected will help refine the development program and more precisely define the characteristics of the final tire range for 2027.

Pirelli engineers worked closely with manufacturers, teams, and riders throughout the session. The development program will culminate in the first official tests of the 2027 season, which are scheduled for Valencia in early December and will involve all of that season's race riders. The company currently serves as the exclusive tire supplier for the Moto2 and Moto3 classes and will extend that role to the premier MotoGP class in 2027.