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Tires have been at the center of controversy following the accident involving Jorge Martin on the first test day on Sepang. Aprilia raised many doubts and concerns about this, pointing the finger at Michelin.
But Piero Taramasso, intercepted in the Malaysian paddock, quickly responded.
"The tire was manufactured last year, and all the data were in place to be used here during the tests," he said. "logically, if it's new, we reuse it for the tests. This tire was made in early 2024, and we'll use it in Assen, Aragon, Barcelona, and Misano. It was never even warmed up, much less left in containers in the sun, like I read. I'd like to, however, emphasize that the containers are cooled and aren't here all year round, since they then return home via ship."
What do you think was the issue?
"Jorge was faster than Binder and Pecco in the second run. In fact, there are no anomalies, since the tire worked. The compound was at temperature and pressure. If it hadn't worked, it wouldn't have gotten to temperature. Obviously, now we'll analyze it thoroughly, through chemical analysis, taking into consideration times and pressure and also speaking with the rider. As far as we saw, at the beginning of the session ,the track was dirty, there was little grip, and the medium wasn't the one that performed best, given the thirty-five degrees of the track. This medium works best with temperatures around fifty degrees."
Have you talked to Aprilia?
"Of course! Like I said, we'll make an assessment and speak with them again."
Piero, why are the teams discontent about the tires?
"This is a typical situation in Sepang, since it's very hot, and it offers little grip because of the old asphalt. The soft works well and, for several seasons, we've been looking for a medium that's similar to the soft. Finding another soft would be impossible because, if not, weìll end up with a qualifying tire. Last year, we brought a new construction, but it didn't work, so we went back to a standard solution."
Bringing more softs?
"This is a solution to be considered and discussed with Dorna, IRTA, and teams. In the end, however, the regulation is clear, which is two specifications."
What are the new features you have here?
"There are three new fronts, including one with a new medium-hard compound called 'F'. Many riders liked it, doing almost thirty laps. We want to use this one in 2026. Next are two evolutions of the new construction, already tested last year, which Pecco and Martin liked so much. We worked mainly on stability with a view towards 2026."
That new front one, on the other hand? It's supposed to be a 130, but those who measured it say it's more.
"Yes, it's a one thirty, but it's practically almost like a Moto3 rear. It has a more 'potbellied' shape, let's say. We made it that way to give it more supporting volume and it mounts on a four rim. There's more rubber on the ground, there's more grip. Then we worked a lot on the materials to give it stability, and the big news is that it's one kilo lighter than the previous one, despite the bigger size. For now, the foundation is good."
What happens when you use such a big tire on the front?
"The first sensation the riders have is less maneuverability. It feels heavier. But these are aspects that can be worked on by working on the bike."
There's also talk of a renewal. Will Michelin continue in the MotoGP?
"There's talk about it. At the moment, we have no news. Of course, we want to stay, and we'll have an answer soon. Maybe we'll already know at the first race."
