Pirelli set for MotoGP tyre test at Aragon before 2027 debut

Italian tyre manufacturer Pirelli is preparing to test the new compounds it is developing for MotoGP during an event in Spain later this year, Autosport has learned.

The test will see five manufacturers trial new compounds that Pirelli is developing ahead of its MotoGP debut in 2027.

Pirelli will become MotoGP’s exclusive tyre supplier from 2027, following the departure of Michelin. The French brand initially stated that it intended to remain in the series beyond 2026, but MotoGP instead opted to unify its tyre supplies across all three world championship categories, as well as the electric MotoE series.

Pirelli is now planning to host a test at Spain’s Aragon circuit to showcase its MotoGP prototypes. The test, which is yet to have a date, will take place in the summer and will be reserved for test riders from the five manufacturers participating in the world championship: Honda, Aprilia, Yamaha, KTM, and Ducati.

The test at the Spanish circuit will be held after the Aragon Grand Prix on 8 June and a MotoGP test day on 9 June. Over the course of the event, Pirelli is hoping to gather as much data about the compounds ahead of its MotoGP entry.

Following this initial run of its new compounds, the Italian manufacturer will reportedly carry out further test sessions over the course of 2026. At this point, Pirelli will rely on feedback from teams and riders to further fine-tune the new rubber.

However, the test programme has already ruffled feathers in the MotoGP paddock. While Pirelli will reportedly cover all operating costs for the 2025 development test, the brand expects teams to cover the costs of the 2026 test sessions, which is something it may not have budgeted for.

The backlash against the test events won’t do much to slow Pirelli’s takeover of global motorsport. When the Italian manufacturer takes over tyre supplies for MotoGP, the series will join Formula 1 and the WorldSBK championships in series that it works with.

Pirelli has also provided tyres to Moto2 and Moto3 since the start of the 2024 season.