Since KTM’s entry in 2017, no new manufacturers have joined MotoGP. In that time, the series has even lost Suzuki. However, speculation is growing about a potential return of the Japanese brand and a possible debut from BMW.
Carlos Ezpeleta, Dorna’s CSO, told Relevo.com that new manufacturers are welcome – under the condition that they replace one of the current teams to avoid expanding the grid:
– I think the championship is in an incredible moment from a sporting perspective, and having more factories would make it better. It depends on performance, investment, and the promotion that brand carries out. What is clear to us is that the door is open, but it must be with an agreement with the existing teams, because our goal is not to exceed 22 riders or 11 teams. We currently have 11 teams, and all of them have value. If someone wants to enter, they will have to come to an agreement with one of these teams.
Ezpeleta emphasized that Dorna’s future regulations have been designed to make the series appealing to more manufacturers: ‘What we have tried to do is establish technical regulations so that a new manufacturer entering the championship represents, let’s say, a reasonable investment. And it should then have an impact on their business, which is what we are aiming for’.