The Ongoing Concorde Agreement Standoff in MotoGP
MotoGP’s next Concorde Agreement has been delayed for far too long, with the series’ directors and executives seemingly unwilling to pay teams and manufacturers any more money. This situation is akin to a hostage scenario, where one party threatens another unless their demands are met. While we often associate such situations with criminals or extreme scenarios, the way MotoGP’s executives are handling negotiations with teams and manufacturers is no less tense.
Every few years, Dorna, now known as the MotoGP Sports Entertainment Group (MGPSEG), meets with teams and manufacturers to set the rules, championship purses, and revenue distribution for the upcoming seasons. These discussions culminate in a Concorde Agreement that remains in effect for a set number of years. Historically, both sides have found a middle ground, even if it means making compromises.
For many years, these negotiations were led by the Ezpeletas, Carlos and Carmello, who represented Dorna and later MGPSEG. However, the current situation has become increasingly complicated. A new Concorde Agreement was expected months ago, as the 2026 season has already begun, and the new framework should have taken effect in 2027 when new rules come into play. Despite this, the agreement has not been finalized, and reports suggest that MGPSEG is reluctant to provide additional funds to teams and manufacturers, even though the sport is experiencing record levels of turnout, earnings, and revenue.
The Power Dynamics at Play
The term “hostage situation” is apt here, as MGPSEG seems to be holding the teams and manufacturers captive until their demands are met. According to Motorsport, major decisions in MotoGP are often made at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in a specific office near the pitlane entrance. On a recent Sunday, just before Marco Bezzecchi secured his perfect run of victories in the 2026 season, most offices were open except one, where a curtain obscured the view. It was in that room that top decision-makers were hoping to finalize the commercial framework for the next five years, ideally through a symbolic handshake between the manufacturers (MSMA) and MGPSEG.
This didn’t happen, and the divide continues to widen. Teams and manufacturers are pushing for an agreement similar to Formula 1’s Concorde Agreement, which would see them receive a share of MotoGP’s annual revenue directly. MGPSEG, however, prefers the current fixed payment system, where a predetermined amount is allocated. This approach is seen as unsustainable by many, especially given the increased demands placed on teams.
Increased Demands on Teams
MotoGP is asking more from teams than ever before. They want fully functional prototypes at promotional events, more marketing and self-promotion efforts, and greater press coverage throughout the season. Additionally, teams are expected to bolster their marketing departments with extra staff. These requirements come at a significant cost, and according to one anonymous source speaking to Motorsport, “The current proposal offers an increase of €1m [to the last Concorde Agreement], but everything they are asking from us already costs significantly more than that.”
As a result, MotoGP is currently without a finalized agreement going into the 2027 season. Neither side appears willing to budge on their positions, but given the power that MGPSEG and the Ezpeletas hold, it feels like there is a gun pressed against the teams’ heads. Hopefully, the teams will stand firm and secure the compensation they deserve.
Conclusion
The ongoing standoff over the Concorde Agreement highlights the growing tensions between MotoGP’s leadership and the teams and manufacturers. With the sport at a crossroads, the outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching implications for the future of MotoGP. Solidarity among the teams and manufacturers may be the key to ensuring fair treatment and sustainable growth for the sport.
