Marco Bezzecchi
MotoGP concessions are becoming a big talking point once again in the paddock as new regulations will enter the sport in 2027.
As it stands, only Yamaha are at the bottom of the rankings in MotoGP’s modern concession system, as they find themselves in Rank D.
Previously, Honda were also in Rank D, but they made their way into Rank C for the 2026 season due to their points total in 2025.
Whilst inside Rank D, Yamaha receive benefits for the 2026 MotoGP season; most notably, the Japanese manufacturer is allowed to develop their engine during the year and is not subject to the engine freeze.
Yamaha also receive further aid towards testing, as they have 260 private test tyres, compared to the 220 in Rank C, as well as the ability to test at any Grand Prix circuit with their test riders and full-time Grand Prix riders.
Should Yamaha go back to their inline four engine until the V4 is ready?
The hidden downsides of MotoGP’s Rank D concessions
On paper, all the Rank D concessions look to benefit a manufacturer, in this case, Yamaha. However, former Yamaha engineer Ramon Forcada has revealed the behind-the-scenes strain that Rank D concessions put on the mechanics.
The Spaniard believes that the concession rankings benefit a manufacturer more politically than technically, due to the ‘pride’ of showing progress from Rank D to Rank C.
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Forcada discussed the ‘burnout’ that MotoGP mechanics experience whilst pushing to exit Rank D of the concessions.
Forcada said, “There are always two ways to look at it: the technical aspect and the political aspect. Even within the technical side, there are factions.
“Those in Group D are pushing their teams to the limit. To get out of the relegation zone, they’re constantly training, and mechanics I know from my time at Yamaha are completely burned out. So, just by doing less training, it’s a huge advantage for the teams to move up a group.
“For the technicians, on the other hand, the more training, the better. The political aspect is about the pride of showing that they’ve climbed out of the hole.
“The concessions were made precisely for this, so that those who are struggling can move up. What the factories have to do now is work on the 850cc bike, and they are doing that.”
Yamaha’s V4 engine struggles in 2026 pre-season testing
In a bold move, Yamaha decided to switch from their tried-and-tested inline-four engine to a new V4 engine for the 2026 MotoGP season.
The move was likely made due to their ability to develop their engine during the Grand Prix season, and for the 850cc engine regulations that will be introduced in 2027.
However, so far, their work with the new engine has left a lot to be desired, as early testing has been more negative than positive. Especially since, due to engine safety concerns, Yamaha had to pause their activities during the Sepang Test.
The Japanese manufacturer may have to work harder during the 2026 season, as Yamaha are expecting to find it ‘challenging’ this year.
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