Yamaha Director Calls for MotoGP Modernization
Yamaha managing director Paolo Pavesio advocates for business reforms to ensure the future sustainability of the sport.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Motocycles
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Yamaha managing director Paolo Pavesio is urging MotoGP to adopt modernized business strategies to improve long-term profitability and audience growth. Liberty Media, which holds the commercial rights, is currently working to expand the series' reach by applying insights from Formula 1.
Why it matters
The sport is seeking a more sustainable business model to better navigate potential automotive industry downturns. As manufacturers provide 70 percent of total investment in the series, their continued participation depends on the ability of the sport to drive motorcycle sales.
Five manufacturers currently account for 70 percent of the total investment in MotoGP. These companies primarily use the sport as a vehicle to drive commercial motorcycle sales.
The players
Paolo Pavesio
Paolo Pavesio is the 54-year-old managing director of Yamaha who is pushing for strategic changes in MotoGP.
Liberty Media
Liberty Media is the owner of the commercial rights for MotoGP and is working to implement growth strategies similar to those used in Formula 1.
The details
MotoGP plans to refine its business model and increase engagement through improved promotion and communication strategies. These operational shifts arrive alongside upcoming technical changes intended to modernize the racing series.
Timeline
New technical regulations and a dual-qualifying format will debut in 2027.
Roadmap
The push to modernize MotoGP reflects a broader industry movement to tie racing success directly to commercial motorcycle sales. By integrating lessons from Formula 1, the series aims to shift from a legacy racing model to a more globally engaged and commercially viable platform.
Fans and prospective buyers can expect shifts in how the series is promoted and potentially changes in bike technology as manufacturers adjust their focus. These moves are designed to sustain brand presence in the showroom, ensuring future model availability.
The takeaway
The transformation of MotoGP into a more accessible commercial product is vital for the continued support of the major manufacturers that define the grid. Readers should look for expanded promotional efforts as Liberty Media begins to roll out its strategy for the 2027 season.
Further reading
For more information on the current landscape of the sport, visit the Motorcycles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by GPone.
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