Get ready for a seismic shift in MotoGP! The 2027 season promises to be a game-changer, not just because of the technical overhaul—think 850cc engines, banned ride-height devices, reduced aerodynamics, and Pirelli tires replacing Michelin—but also due to the potential shake-up in the rider line-up. With most contracts expiring by the end of 2026, the grid could look dramatically different. But here's where it gets controversial: will the reigning champions and fan favorites stay put, or will they jump ship to rival teams? And this is the part most people miss—the technical changes could level the playing field, making team choices more about rider ambition than bike performance.
So far, only three riders have secured their spots for 2027. Honda leads the charge with Johann Zarco at LCR, joined by the rising star Diogo Moreira, who’s stepping up to the premier class on a multi-year deal. Meanwhile, Toprak Razgatlioglu is set to make his MotoGP debut with Pramac Yamaha, bringing his Pirelli tire expertise from WorldSBK. Speaking of WorldSBK, Nicolo Bulega is tipped to join the MotoGP grid in 2027 after starting a Ducati testing contract in 2026. And let’s not forget Fermin Aldeguer, whose race-winning heroics at Mandalika have Ducati likely eyeing him for a 2027 extension.
But here’s the kicker: none of the five factory teams have officially signed riders yet, leaving the door wide open for speculation. Will Marc Marquez, at 32, lead Ducati into this new era? Could Francesco Bagnaia’s struggles in 2025 push him to explore other options? And what about Jorge Martin, Joan Mir, and Fabio Quartararo—will they stay loyal or seek greener pastures? Martin’s failed attempt to switch to Honda from Aprilia adds another layer of intrigue, especially since the RS-GP is now the second-best bike on the grid. Quartararo, meanwhile, has hinted his future with Yamaha depends entirely on the competitiveness of their 2026 V4 bike.
KTM has given us a sneak peek at their new 850cc engine, but manufacturers have agreed to hold off on track testing until the end of 2025. KTM’s top priority? Keeping Pedro Acosta, though the young Spaniard has been linked to Ducati and Honda. Here’s a thought-provoking question: With the technical reset, could we see a shift in the balance of power, giving underdogs a real shot at the title? Or will the big teams adapt and dominate as usual? Let us know what you think in the comments!
Below is the 2027 rider line-up so far, along with contract details for key riders:
2027 MotoGP Rider Line-up:
- Toprak Razgatlioglu: Prima Pramac Racing Yamaha (Contract until end of 2027)
- Johann Zarco: LCR Honda Castrol (HRC contract until end of 2027)
- Diogo Moreira: LCR Honda Idemitsu (Multi-year HRC deal)
- Fermin Aldeguer: Gresini Racing MotoGP (Ducati contract until end of 2026 with a two-year option)
TBC:
- Marc Marquez: Ducati Lenovo Team (Contract until end of 2026)
- Francesco Bagnaia: Ducati Lenovo Team (Contract until end of 2026)
- Pedro Acosta: Red Bull KTM Factory Racing (Multi-year contract until 2026)
- Brad Binder: Red Bull KTM Factory Racing (Contract until end of 2026)
- Jorge Martin: Aprilia Racing (Multi-year contract until 2026)
- Marco Bezzecchi: Aprilia Racing (Multi-year contract until 2026)
- Fabio Quartararo: Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP (Contract until end of 2026)
- Alex Rins: Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP (Contract until end of 2026)
- Luca Marini: Honda HRC (Contract until end of 2026)
- Joan Mir: Honda HRC (Contract until end of 2026)
- Fabio di Giannantonio: Pertamina Enduro VR46 Ducati (Contract until end of 2026)
- Franco Morbidelli: Pertamina Enduro VR46 (Contract until end of 2026)
- Alex Marquez: Gresini Racing MotoGP (Gresini contract until end of 2026)
- Jack Miller: Prima Pramac Racing Yamaha (Contract until end of 2026)
- Raul Fernandez: Trackhouse MotoGP (Contract until end of 2026)
- Ai Ogura: Trackhouse MotoGP (Contract until end of 2026)
- Maverick Vinales: Red Bull KTM Tech3 (Multi-year contract until 2026)
- Enea Bastianini: Red Bull KTM Tech3 (Multi-year contract until 2026)
The stage is set for one of the most exciting seasons in MotoGP history. Who will rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.
