Having returned to MotoGP in 2016, Michelin took over from Bridgestone as the tyre manufacturer supporting riders in the reigning class. This latest agreement with Dorna means that the Michelin Man will remain on the MotoGP grid until at least 2026. At least, because the new contract will run from 2023 and will last for three seasons. By which time, the manufacturer will have been the sole supplier for ten years. Not bad for the French firm, while the Spanish company benefits from the continuity the partnership brings.

“We are very happy with the results we've obtained since Michelin's return to MotoGP”, states Michelin CEO Florént Ménégux. “We are particularly proud of the technological progress made with our products, as well as the many records broken together with our partners. This championship offers fans a captivating spectacle, and it's accessible via digital platforms unparalleled in motorsport. Being a partner of MotoGP therefore represents a valuable opportunity for Michelin to engage the public and players across the discipline in its vision, brand, tyres and innovation. For Michelin, motorsport is a laboratory that encourages the transfer of its expertise and sustainable solutions for the benefit of everyone.”

Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta adds: “We’re very proud to continue our partnership with Michelin until at least 2026. Michelin has been a vital partner for MotoGP since it became the tyre supplier to the premier class in 2016, helping us to create one of the greatest eras of competition in motorcycle grand prix racing history. I’m delighted that we will reach a decade of collaboration and I hope we can continue building on this incredible foundation together. This agreement is fantastic news for all of us in the championship”.

Translated by Heather Watson

Andrea Dovizioso returns to MotoGP, a stroke of Yamaha genius or a gamble?