ESPARAGARO EXPECTS MORE DRAMA FROM MOTOGP’S 2027 FORMAT

Aleix Espargaro expects MotoGP’s 2027 weekend changes to create more uncertainty and pressure, but says the move to 850cc machinery and Pirelli tyres should improve rider safety. The Honda test rider is reserving judgment on the new format, which will be the championship’s biggest schedule overhaul since Sprint races began in 2023.

Espargaro said he initially opposed Sprints, but has since recognised their appeal: “The show is good, the people like it.” He expects the new qualifying structure to produce more surprises. A 15-minute Sprint qualifying session will take place on Friday afternoon, with all riders then entering Saturday’s Grand Prix qualifying. The fastest 12 will advance to Q2. Sunday’s warm-up will be replaced by a 10-minute pitlane window for sighting laps before the race.

The short Friday session could be difficult to manage with 22 riders chasing fast laps and yellow flags disrupting attempts. “You will see a lot more drama for sure, many top riders starting in P15, in P20,” Espargaro said. He believes the changes could benefit the championship and spectacle, while making life “very stressful” for riders.

He also warned that time attacks carry risk, though MotoGP says the new format will not increase their number. Riders will have only one new tyre set per qualifying session, limiting the weekend to two or three time attacks: Sprint qualifying, Q1 and, for the top 12, Q2. The current schedule can involve at least four, including Friday practice and additional attempts for riders advancing from Q1.

On safety, Espargaro pointed to the technical changes planned for 2027. He said the new tyres are “super, super easy to ride” and that the bikes will be slower, making the package safer for riders’ injuries despite his preference for the greater power of today’s 1000cc machines. “If we speak about safety, this will be better,” he said.

The revised format’s faster, more crowded qualifying sessions may still make it difficult for riders to judge the limit, Espargaro added. His comments came during his return to the paddock at Mandalika after serious back injuries in April. He withdrew from the Indonesian Grand Prix because of ongoing physical discomfort.