MotoGP Confirms 2027 Pre-Season Test Schedule for New 850cc Era

Sepang will host two shortened two-day sessions before MotoGP heads to Buriram for an earlier final test ahead of the 2027 season opener.

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MotoGP has confirmed the dates and venues for its 2027 pre-season testing programme, as manufacturers prepare for the major regulation change that will introduce 850cc engines and Pirelli tyres.

The winter testing programme will begin with a post-season test at Valencia on 1 December 2026, before the teams return to action in Malaysia and Thailand early next year.

Sepang International Circuit will once again host the opening stages of pre-season testing, with the Sepang Shakedown scheduled for 29-30 January 2027, followed immediately by the Official Test on 31 January-1 February.

Unlike previous seasons, both Sepang sessions have been reduced from three days to two. With no gap between the Shakedown and Official Test, MotoGP rookies and test riders will have two fewer days of potential track time to familiarise themselves with the new-generation machinery.

The biggest change to the schedule, however, comes with the final test in Thailand. The Buriram Test will take place on 6-7 February 2027, almost a month before the opening Grand Prix at the same venue, which is scheduled for 5-7 March.

The earlier timing is understood to have been requested by MotoGP manufacturers, giving teams additional time to analyse their bikes and make necessary changes before the first race of the new 850cc era.

Engine homologation and the initial aerodynamic packages will once again be frozen from the opening round. However, all manufacturers will begin the 2027 season in the same B concession ranking, meaning Yamaha and Honda, currently classified in Rank D, will also need to finalise their initial 2027 engine designs. Concession rankings will then be reviewed during the summer break.

The confirmed MotoGP winter testing schedule is:

• Valencia Test: 1 December 2026
• Sepang Shakedown: 29-30 January 2027
• Sepang Official Test: 31 January-1 February 2027
• Buriram Test: 6-7 February 2027

Following the completion of pre-season testing, MotoGP will hold its official 2027 Season Launch in Rio de Janeiro on 21 February, with the main event scheduled to take place at Botafogo Beach beneath Sugarloaf Mountain.

The complete 2027 MotoGP World Championship calendar has yet to be announced.

Moto2 and Moto3 testing confirmed

Meanwhile, pre-season testing schedules for Moto2 and Moto3 have also been confirmed, with all sessions taking place at the Circuito de Jerez-Angel Nieto in Spain. Moto2 will have both a private and official test, while Moto3 will conduct one official test.

The schedule is:

• Moto2 Private Test: 16-17 February 2027
• Moto3 Official Test: 18-19 February 2027
• Moto2 Official Test: 20-21 February 2027

With the new 850cc engines, Pirelli tyres and revised technical regulations arriving together, the 2027 pre-season tests will provide teams and riders with their first major opportunity to understand how the new MotoGP era will perform on track.

The 2027 MotoGP rookie line-up currently includes Dani Holgado, David Alonso and Izan Guevara, with Nicolo Bulega and Senna Agius also expected to join the premier class.