MotoGP to Implement Engine Development Freeze in 2026 Ahead of Major 2027 Rules Overhaul

Announcement: MotoGP confirms engine development halt before 2027 regulations overhaul

The suspension of engine advancements will start in 2026

The Grand Prix Commission has disclosed that there will be a suspension of MotoGP engine upgrades starting from the 2026 season, in preparation for the transition to 850cc engines in 2027.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that the 2027 MotoGP season is set to witness one of the most significant changes in regulations since the switch from 800cc to 1000cc motorcycles in 2012.

Starting in 2027, MotoGP motorcycles will feature 850cc engines, alongside significant cuts in aerodynamic features and a complete prohibition of ride height mechanisms.

In recent discussions, manufacturers have contemplated implementing a halt on engine development over the last few months. This strategy aims to manage expenses effectively as they reallocate resources in preparation for 2027.

At present, manufacturers without concessions are required to certify their engines before the start of the new season's first race and are not allowed to make any developments to them for the remainder of the year.

The implementation of the freeze is set for the beginning of 2026, but for manufacturers not classified under concession group D, it practically starts next year, since their 2025 engines are required to be used in races the subsequent year.

For the first time since the COVID pandemic, there has been a halt in engine development, requiring engines that were in competition in 2020 to be reused in 2021 for brands without concessions.

Yamaha and Honda have the opportunity to keep advancing their engines until 2026, provided they don't achieve the necessary outcomes to elevate their concession level from D.

Manufacturers without a D-level concession status will be permitted to modify their engines in 2026 for reasons related to safety and reliability or in cases where the existing parts required to construct those engines are no longer accessible.

Nevertheless, these alterations should not result in any improvement in performance.

The official announcement from MotoGP regarding the issue stated: "There will be a halt on engine specification changes in MotoGP for the year 2026, which requires manufacturers to continue with their engine designs from 2025 into the next season.

The Grand Prix Commission sanctioned the proposal with the aim of managing expenses and maintaining as equitable a competition as possible, ahead of MotoGP's transition to new motorcycles in 2027.

"The latest motorcycles introduced to MotoGP are set to enhance safety, sustainability, and the overall excitement, featuring entirely revamped engine designs."

A halt in development during the previous season ensures that expenses remain manageable for everyone, enabling manufacturers to concentrate on their upcoming 2027 models.

The only instances not affected by the suspension will be those concerning safety or dependability, as well as for any producers classified under Concession Rank D.

Manufacturers may be permitted to make adjustments for the sake of safety, reliability, or due to the confirmed unavailability of parts, provided these changes do not enhance performance.

"For manufacturing facilities classified under concession Rank D, the restrictions on engine specification modifications will not be enforced unless there is a shift in their rank."

"The specifications for them will continue to be available at no cost, as they are currently, enabling those who are significantly behind the leaders to keep improving crucial aspects of their equipment."

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