MotoGP manufacturers left the recent US Grand Prix weekend feeling optimistic following key discussions with Liberty Media, the owner of MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group (SEG). The meeting, held during MotoGP’s ‘home’ race in the United States, is seen as a significant step toward finalizing manufacturer agreements for the new 2027 era.
Currently, all five MotoGP manufacturers are negotiating together with SEG over terms for the next phase of the championship, which starts in 2027. Unlike previous years, they are seeking a Formula 1-style TV revenue distribution and longer guarantees over their grid positions. For its part, MotoGP SEG is asking for greater commitment to promoting and marketing the series.
While the negotiations have been kept private, the recent meeting was described as positive by Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola, who told Sky Italia, “We had a meeting, yes, that’s right, you all saw us go up together. We were happy, it was a good meeting. We also met Derek Chang, the CEO of Liberty, so let’s move forward.” Photos from the event featured key figures such as KTM’s Pit Beirer, Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali, Piaggio Group CEO Michele Colaninno, and Liberty Media leadership, highlighting the importance of the talks.
The absence of a finalized agreement is believed to be delaying several major rider announcements for 2027. High-profile moves—such as Pedro Acosta to Ducati, Francesco Bagnaia to Aprilia, Fabio Quartararo to Honda, and Alex Marquez to KTM—are widely reported but have yet to be officially confirmed. Manufacturers are reportedly waiting for a new agreement before making these deals public, as early announcements could weaken their negotiating position.
Despite this, development for the new 850cc bikes is already underway, with KTM and Honda testing prototypes and other manufacturers confirming in-house progress. Aprilia has already announced a new deal with Marco Bezzecchi, while Yamaha and Honda have secured riders for next season as well.
If a breakthrough was reached in Texas, the MotoGP paddock could see a wave of official rider announcements during the extended break before the next race at Jerez. This would mark an important milestone as teams and fans look ahead to the 2027 season and a new era for MotoGP.
