MotoGP season 2027 brings significant changes alongside the new 850cc prototypes, and the rider lineup shows a heavy mix. It is reported that only five of the current 22 riders will continue their roles.
The Status of Current Riders
Among the riders leaving MotoGP are Alex Rins, Jack Miller, Franco Morbidelli, Maverick Vinales, and Brad Binder. The careers of these riders will continue in various forms in the 2027 MotoGP championship. However, as in previous generations, no rider will be able to return to the middle-level GP class next year.
Riders' Interest in Moto2
It is stated that Alex Rins has no doubts about Moto2. The new Yamaha factory rider does not consider Moto2 as an alternative. The rider emphasized that MotoGP is a unique experience. It is indicated that for Alex Rins, a move to a superbike team after unsuccessful attempts would mean a step back.
Returns to Moto2
The thoughts on the Moto2 projects of Jack Miller, Brad Binder, and Franco Morbidelli are being evaluated. Information was shared that the Australian rider has moved to the Superbike World Championship with Yamaha, Binder has signed a contract with BMW, and Morbidelli will continue competing in 2027.
Franco Morbidelli's being the 2017 Moto2 Champion does not prevent him from returning to his former and most successful arena. Morbidelli stated that MotoGP is special, but since he is a racer, he should not compete in Moto2 as long as he is competitive and passionate. He emphasized that these classes are equally challenging and exciting in every way.
MotoGP Riders Moving to Moto2
Team Principal Jürgen Lingg of Intact GP questioned whether it is appropriate for a MotoGP rider to return to Moto2 under current conditions. Tom Lüthi's successful example, returning to Moto2 after completing his MotoGP career and finishing third in the 2019 Moto2 World Championship, was shown as a successful example. However, Lingg stated that it is not possible for a successful MotoGP rider to "fall back." He emphasized how important electronic and aerodynamic developments are in MotoGP, and that a race without significant electronic input would be a major change. In contrast, he stated that the importance of small details diminishes in Moto2.
Moto2 Team Proximity
Moto2 teams know that MotoGP riders are not their first choice. It is also stated that Maverick Vinales is aware of this situation. Furthermore, it is expressed that MotoGP is moving in only one direction for 2027 and no step back is planned. Information was shared that all top positions in Moto2 are already secured for 2027. Therefore, the only hope for the 31-year-old rider who does not take on a development rider role is that he will be considered a reserve rider in discussions.
Statements
Alex Rins:
I have never thought of Moto2 as an alternative. Everyone sees it differently, but GP riding is a unique experience, it is like nothing else.
Franco Morbidelli:
Of course, MotoGP is very special, but I am a racing rider first. So, why should I not compete in Moto2 as long as I am competitive and passionate? The class is challenging and exciting in every way.
Tom needs to prove that an adaptation can work, but we must not forget that he already had a lot of experience and only raced in MotoGP for one year.
Figures
- Archive: Harsh criticism from Ducati to Bagnaia: "We went backward in the last two years!" (October 13, 2026)
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Go to sourceCompiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
