Several MotoGP riders think proposed ‘World Superbike rule’ for 2027 is ‘madness’

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MotoGP teams are still finalising the sporting regulations for next season, just over six months out from the start of the campaign.

The 2027 technical regulations are already set in stone, with testing underway, and the commercial agreement was finally signed during the Brno weekend after protracted negotiations.

But while some sporting measures, such as the ban on wildcards, have already been passed, others like the proposed one-bike rule are splitting the teams.

‘Second-bike limitation’ prompts backlash from MotoGP riders

According to Motorsport.com, the expectation was that teams would only have one bike available during practice and qualifying sessions next year, with two in the garage for the Sprint and Grand Prix.

This has been called the ‘World Superbike rule’ (because it reflects the setup in the sister series) and the ‘second-bike limitation’.

The factory bosses shook hands on the idea but didn’t sign a binding agreement, and now KTM have withdrawn their consent. Honda have always said they would go with the majority, while independent teams are believed to be opposed.

The idea came from Aprilia and was supported by title rivals Ducati for cost-cutting reasons.

The report adds that ‘several riders’ have privately made it clear that the proposal is ‘little short of madness’. If they were to damage their motorcycle on a Friday or Saturday morning, they would be ruled out for the remainder of the session.

• READ MORE: Francesco Bagnaia admits ‘I don’t agree’ with rule change MotoGP is discussing for 2027

While one could argue that this would simply necessitate a more cautious approach, riders also need to be able to explore the limits during practice.

The bosses at the Italian factories were hoping for a small saving, but now it looks highly unlikely that the rule will be introduced, even if there are further talks planned for Silverstone.

Teams are hopeful that revenues will naturally start to increase if new owners Liberty Media are able to grow the sport, which would improve ticket sales and raise the value of broadcasting rights.