MotoGP and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. have announced a landmark long-term agreement that will see Yamaha become the exclusive motorcycle supplier for the FIM Moto3 World Championship from 2028 to 2033, ushering in a new era for Grand Prix motorcycle racing and rider development.
The ambitious project was officially unveiled during a joint press conference at the Dutch TT in Assen, marking one of the most significant structural changes to the Moto3 category in recent years.
Designed around the core principles of accessibility, sporting integrity, technical excellence and long-term sustainability, the initiative aims to strengthen the rider development ladder while ensuring that talent remains the decisive factor in identifying future MotoGP stars.
At the centre of the project is an all-new Grand Prix prototype developed by Yamaha using its proven CP2 production platform, which has been extensively redesigned specifically for world championship competition.
The new machine is expected to deliver a higher power-to-weight ratio than the current Moto3 motorcycles while featuring a full-size chassis better suited to the physical demands and riding style of the next generation of racers.
MotoGP and Yamaha confirmed that the motorcycle will make its public debut in 2027, with prototype testing scheduled to begin later this year as part of a progressive development programme.
The project extends well beyond the Moto3 World Championship itself.
Beginning in 2029, the FIM Moto3 Junior World Championship, contested within the MotoJunior paddock, is expected to adopt a slightly lower-specification version of the same platform, creating a seamless progression route for young riders.
MotoGP and Yamaha also revealed that discussions are already underway with several regional championships interested in adopting the new machinery, helping establish a unified global development pathway from grassroots racing to Grand Prix competition.
MotoGP Chief Sporting Officer Carlos Ezpeleta described the initiative as a major investment in the future of the sport.
“We’re really proud to unveil the future of Moto3, not just for the World Championship but also for its importance to grassroots programmes globally.
“MotoGP is committed to growing motorcycle racing, supporting talent and improving accessibility while creating the safest and most exciting sport possible. Together with Yamaha, we are creating a global platform for young riders—not simply announcing which motorcycle they will race.
“Moto3 plays a vital role in our championship. It is the first professional step for many riders who eventually become MotoGP superstars. This new era is designed to strengthen that role and provide an even better platform for talent and performance to shine.”
Yamaha Motor Racing Managing Director Paolo Pavesio said the programme reflects Yamaha’s commitment to supporting future generations of racers.
“Moto3 has always been the starting point of the Grand Prix dream. It is where future champions develop their skills and where the future of our sport begins.
“From the beginning, our goal was never simply to build a motorcycle. We wanted to create a platform capable of supporting riders, teams and championships for many years through a combination of accessibility, engineering efficiency and racing performance.
“This is a truly global Yamaha project, bringing together the expertise of Yamaha Motor Co., Yamaha Motor Racing and Yamaha Motor Europe, reflecting our long-term commitment to motorcycle racing and rider development.”
The introduction of Yamaha as the sole Moto3 supplier represents a significant evolution for the championship, replacing the current technical formula with a platform designed to improve performance, reduce complexity and strengthen the development pathway toward Moto2 and MotoGP.
More than just a new race bike, the initiative represents a shared vision between MotoGP and Yamaha to shape the future of Grand Prix racing—creating a sustainable ecosystem where young talent can progress through a consistent and globally connected development programme.
With prototype testing set to commence later this year and the official motorcycle unveiling scheduled for 2027, Moto3 is preparing to enter a transformative new chapter ahead of Yamaha’s exclusive debut in the 2028 MotoGP World Championship season.
Credit Photo : MotoGP
