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The future of MotoGP: 22 Grand Prix, more than F1!

Ezpeleta prepares the new 2022-2026 agreement: more races and less tests, a maximum of 24 bikes and continuity with regard to the technical regulation

MotoGP: The future of MotoGP: 22 Grand Prix, more than F1!

The future of MotoGP is taking shape thanks to Carmelo Ezpeleta. Dorna and the manufacturers have a contract that will come to an end in 2021 and work is already underway to put together a new agreement, which will run from 2022 to 2026.

What will change? The key aspect could well be an increase in the number of Grand Prix, to be upped from the current 20 to 22, as revealed by well-informed website Speedweek. We are talking about a maximum number of races per season, which may not be reached, but Dorna wants to at least keep the door open. With the number, the bikes would overtake Formula 1, which currently holds 21 Grand Prix.

There are 19 races right now, with the expected arrival of Finland and Indonesia in coming years, but other tracks have also shown an interesting in hosting the MotoGP. Increasing the maximum number of races is almost a requirement for the organiser then. On the other hand, the number of test days may be reduced, following this season's drop from three to two tests during the February-March period.

As for the arrival of new manufacturers, this does not appear to be a priority. Ezpleta is happy with the current grid, comprising Aprilia, Ducati, Honda, KTM, Suzuki and Yamaha and doesn't want to see more than 24 riders on track. The ideal solution would be for each factory to field two bikes with a factory team and a further two with a satellite team. Right now, only Aprilia and Suzuki do not supply bikes to external teams, but things could change.

The Noale manufacturer is a unique case in MotoGP in fact, in that the Italian firm does not have its own team, but rather supports team Gresini. Something that could change over the coming five years.

Lastly, the technical regulation, which will be updated but will favour continuity. This means making some adjustment to try and further contain costs, with the possibility of stricter limitations regarding aerodynamic development.

Translated by Heather Watson

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