MotoGP to scrap wildcard appearances from 2027
MotoGP is set to ban wildcard entries from 2027, although they won’t be scrapped from the Moto2 or Moto3 classes.
MotoGP is putting an end to wildcard appearances from the start of the 2027 season, after announcing a series of tweaks to the current regulations.
The decision will put an end to a rule that had provided manufacturers the chance to test new material, or develop future prototypes.
Yamaha comes to mind especially, as the Iwata-based company made several wildcard appearances towards the end of 2025 in a bid to develop its new V4-powered M1.
But regardless of where brands rank in the current MotoGP concessions rank, that is no longer going to be possible. It means we will no longer see the likes of KTM’s Dani Pedrosa, or Honda’s Aleix Espargaro on track in 2027.
No explanation was provided, but it means that test riders will only be given race opportunities in future if they are replacing an injured rider.
The move could also reduce the level of interest from riders that are seeking a test riding role in the hope of using wildcard outings to secure a full-time MotoGP seat.
In the press release, MotoGP said wildcards with 850cc machinery are also not permitted during the current 2026 season. While MotoGP is set to ban wildcards completely from 2027, it will not be getting rid of them in Moto2 or Moto3, nor will it drop the tyre pressure monitoring system.
The full list of changes were revealed in a statement by the Grand Prix Commission, which said:
“Wildcards in the MotoGP class will no longer be permitted from the 2027 season onwards. This will apply to all manufacturers, regardless of their Concession Rank.
“Wildcards will remain permitted for the Moto2 and Moto3 classes.
“Wildcard entries in the MotoGP class in 2026 are not permitted to run 2027-spec 850cc machinery, regardless of a manufacturer’s concession rank.”
MotoGP is also making a tweak to its start delayed procedure, with the countdown to the warm-up lap now set to take place five minutes before the restart, rather than three minutes before.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
