Tyre pressure rule “going to ruin” MotoGP, as riders express more fury

In a bid to eliminate any ambiguities in the rulebook, MotoGP has implemented a minimum front and rear tyre pressure policy that riders must adhere to. Specifically, they must not run below these pressures for at least 30% of a sprint and 50% of a grand prix.

This rule came into effect at the British Grand Prix in August following the installation of the new Tyre Pressure Management System.

Initially, riders were displeased with the minimum front pressure being set at 1.88 bar (27.26psi), as it left them with minimal margin before the front became harder to manage above 2.0 bar (29psi).

Riders have consistently observed a rapid increase in pressure when following other bikes, resulting in more front tyre locking. Grappling with setting the right pressure for various race types leaves them vulnerable to penalties.

During the Malaysian Grand Prix, Martin, who had received a warning earlier in the year for breaking the tyre pressure rule, expressed his frustration, stating that this regulation hampers their ability to perform at their best.

Following this rule change, Aleix Espargaro also expressed his discontent, emphasizing the need to adopt more conservative pressure settings to avoid penalties. He criticized the impact of this rule on the championship.

A similar sentiment was shared by KTM’s Brad Binder, who argued that this rule, established for safety reasons, ironically poses safety risks and called for Michelin to consider lowering the minimum limit.

Espargaro lamented the riders’ ongoing attempts to address this issue with Michelin and MotoGP’s regulatory bodies, but indicated there has been no progress so far.

With regards to the tyre pressure rule, the championship contenders have each received a warning for running under the minimum front tyre pressure after the Malaysian GP, setting the stage for a potential decision being influenced by time penalties in the upcoming rounds.

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Photo by: Gold and Goose / Motorsport Images

Francesco Bagnaia, Ducati Team