The incredible rider market frenzy captivating MotoGP right now will transform the grid in 2027, yes – but it will also bring with it some remarkable subplots for 2026.
Several, if not all, of the works teams are likely to have their line-ups firmed up a year in advance, before round 1 of 22. Inevitably, that means that a whole host of rider-team combinations will have already ‘divorced’ before lights out in Thailand – but will have to stay married and live together in the paddock weekend after weekend after weekend before they can finally go their own ways.
It is particularly fascinating on the rider side. Several of them – some race winners, some champions – will race up to 44 races knowing they are surplus to requirements. Pecco Bagnaia at Ducati, Brad Binder at KTM and Alex Rins at Yamaha are currently looking like at least three, but that list could expand still.
