The FIM has approved a freeze on engine development for the 2025 and 2026 MotoGP seasons, aimed at reducing costs and helping equaling out the premier class’ massive gaps in performance ahead of the major overhaul in 2027.
The Grand Prix Commission confirmed that from the start of 2025, teams will be required to lock in their engine specifications until the end of 2026, prohibiting further modifications.
This development freeze is part of a larger strategy to level the playing field in MotoGP and for manufacturers to shift their focus towards preparing for a new generation of motorcycles, which will debut in 2027.
Dorna’s Sporting Director Carlos Ezpeleta stated, “We believe this is a very good strategy to give manufacturers the opportunity to concentrate on developing the new engines and bikes for 2027.”
However, this regulation won’t apply universally across the grid. Both Honda and Yamaha, currently benefiting from special concessions due to their underperformance, will still have some flexibility in engine development until they demonstrate a return to competitiveness. Changes related to safety or reliability will also be permitted across all manufacturers but cannot result in performance gains.
The decision follows months of heated debate, particularly among European manufacturers. Initially, there was widespread support for an engine freeze from brands like Ducati and KTM, but Aprilia was hesitant, ultimately causing the topic to be temporarily shelved. The discussion resurfaced in autumn, and on October 10, the FIM commission finally confirmed that all manufacturers had reached an agreement.
