MotoGP Approves Engine Freeze Ahead of 2027 850cc Era
MotoGP will freeze engine development for 2025 and 2026 to control costs and level the playing field ahead of the…
Massimo Rivola, Aprilia Racing’s CEO, has been elected as the new president of the MotoGP World Championship Constructors’ Association (MMSA).
The decision was finalized during a vote held ahead of MotoGP’s post-season test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
Rivola succeeds KTM CEO Stefan Pierer and will serve a two-year term, with the possibility of extending his presidency for another two years.
Having joined Aprilia in 2019 after a notable career in Formula 1 with Toro Rosso and Ferrari, Rivola has played a key role in transforming Aprilia into a competitive force in MotoGP.
The MMSA, comprising all championship manufacturers, often finds itself at odds over critical regulatory decisions.
One such divisive issue is the upcoming engine freeze, set to take effect with next year’s homologated engines and lasting until the end of 2026. This measure precedes the introduction of new 850cc engines in 2027.
Aprilia was notably critical of the freeze, arguing it conflicted with cost-containment goals. The manufacturer questioned the fairness of allowing Yamaha to develop a V-configuration engine under the current 1000cc displacement, despite a pending switch to the smaller 850cc units.
All MMSA discussions ultimately require ratification by the Grand Prix Commission, which includes representatives from manufacturers, Dorna (MotoGP’s promoter), the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM), and the Teams’ Association (IRTA).
