The minimum tire pressure for MotoGP front tires has already led to penalties for some riders in 2023, even though it only became mandatory halfway through the season. Speculation for next year suggests that the penalty could be disqualification of the rider after the first offense. Carlos Ezpeleta, sporting director of Dorna, came to clarify the matter, which has divided opinions – particularly among the riders who complain about this rule.
In an interview with SPEEDWEEK.com, the official emphasized that this warning is not confirmed, while also pointing out that there are other championships with rules regarding tire pressure: ‘It has not been confirmed or announced that disqualification will be the immediate penalty. Tire pressure rules have been an integral part of racing for several years and exist in various motor sports. I believe Michelin is the best tire supplier there is, and we must have a lot of respect for them because they are the experts‘.
Ezpeleta later recalled that this was a necessary measure and discussed by teams for safety reasons: ‘This issue of a minimum tire pressure was suggested by both manufacturers and Michelin for safety reasons. Unfortunately, it became a very sensitive issue as several riders and teams were using dangerously low pressures and we had to introduce a minimum limit’.
Nevertheless, the Spaniard does not rule out adjustments to the rules: ‘We will have to talk to Michelin to see if it is possible to lower this target [currently at 1.88bar], which of course still needs to be safe and within which the riders feel a little more comfortable. Small changes in pressure can make a big difference on the bikes. The riders and bikes are so good, the competition is so fierce, that we want to talk to Michelin about lowering this tire pressure target’.
