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As the new year unfolds, we look ahead to what the 2026 MotoGP season will bring. This season presents unique challenges and opportunities for teams and riders alike. With Michelin stepping down as the official tire supplier and Pirelli preparing to take over, the landscape is shifting dramatically.
The upcoming season marks the final year for Michelin, meaning the tires will closely resemble those used in 2026. Coupled with new regulations set for 2027—850cc engines, restrictions on ride-height devices, and reduced aerodynamic features—manufacturers face difficult decisions. They must determine whether to invest in perfecting the current bike or shift focus to developing their 2027 models.
Championship outlook: Marc Márquez leads the pack
Current trends indicate that Marc Márquez is likely to emerge as the champion for the 2026 season. In early forecasts, his dominance was anticipated, and he validated this expectation by clinching the title almost effortlessly after the initial sprint race in Buriram. Márquez’s exceptional skill and experience on the Ducati GP25 have allowed him to leverage every opportunity, showcasing his ability to navigate the bike’s strengths and weaknesses.
Looking forward, competition remains intense, but few riders match Márquez’s caliber. The closest contenders, riding for Yamaha and KTM, face significant challenges. Within the Ducati team, Pecco Bagnaia struggled to regain his footing in 2026, and unless a major redesign occurs, he may not pose a threat this season. Meanwhile, Alex Márquez benefits from sharing machinery with his brother, but is unlikely to surpass him given Marc’s extensive track record across various circuits.
The physical toll of racing
One factor that may hinder Márquez’s performance is his physical condition. The cumulative impact of numerous crashes has begun to take its toll. Lessons learned from his crash in Jerez in 2026 remain at the forefront of his mind; he must balance his competitive spirit with his body’s limits. Although his talent and ambition suggest he could secure several more MotoGP titles, each incident brings him closer to potential retirement.
Interestingly, Márquez is not driven by records or the number of victories, but rather by the desire to win. His focus remains solely on achieving that next triumph, a mentality akin to musicians craving their next hit song. He will retire when his body can no longer keep pace with his ambitions, but that moment is not imminent.
Runners-up: Bezzecchi and Alex Márquez
Forecasts indicate that Marco Bezzecchi and Alex Márquez will finish in the second and third positions, respectively. The 2026 season has been remarkable for Alex, who showcased consistent performance, securing three GP wins and several podium finishes. His consistency has kept him competitive, even in the shadow of his brother’s dominance.
Meanwhile, Bezzecchi made significant strides in his inaugural season with Aprilia, climbing from twelfth place in the championship after Le Mans to finishing third by the season’s end. His adaptability to the Aprilia RS-GP and ability to lead development efforts position him as a formidable contender. Although Alex Márquez will carry his 2026 momentum into the upcoming season, Bezzecchi’s experience with Aprilia may prove decisive, allowing him to surpass Alex in the overall standings.
The upcoming silly season
As the 2027 season approaches, the rider market is poised for significant transformation. Unlike the previous year, where expectations fell short, the upcoming silly season promises a whirlwind of activity as teams assess their line-ups and explore new talents. A number of riders, including Fabio Quartararo and Pedro Acosta, have expressed dissatisfaction with their current teams and seek more competitive opportunities.
Many factors will influence team dynamics, particularly the performance of riders like Pecco Bagnaia, who faces intense scrutiny. If he fails to deliver early in the season, Ducati may look to replace him, potentially opening doors for emerging talents. Additionally, Honda is reportedly eager to attract high-caliber riders to enhance their performance, indicating a shifting landscape.
Anticipating a thrilling season
The upcoming season marks the final year for Michelin, meaning the tires will closely resemble those used in 2026. Coupled with new regulations set for 2027—850cc engines, restrictions on ride-height devices, and reduced aerodynamic features—manufacturers face difficult decisions. They must determine whether to invest in perfecting the current bike or shift focus to developing their 2027 models.0