Michelin Officially Announces New Minimum Front Tyre Pressure for 2024 MotoGP Season Alongside Introduction of Post-Race Time Penalties
Michelin has officially announced the new minimum front tire pressure for the 2024 MotoGP™ season, bringing significant changes with the introduction of post-race penalties. The official tire supplier of MotoGP™ has worked closely with manufacturers to improve regulation and ensure safe and competitive performance.
The most noticeable change is the reduction in the mandatory minimum pressure of the front tires, which has been reduced from 1.88 to 1.80 bar. This decision is a direct response to the concerns of riders who had issues with front-end lock-up and lack of grip when closely following other bikes during races. Michelin aims to alleviate these problems by starting with lower pressures, which allows for better front tire control and better performance in difficult conditions.
This strategic change aims to maintain the critical balance between safety and performance, recognizing the unique challenges that riders face on different tracks and weather conditions. The expectation is that by starting at a lower pressure, drivers will avoid a sudden loss of grip and braking power, which will contribute to a more exciting and safer race.
In addition, the introduction of post-race penalties means a stricter approach to dealing with tire pressure offences. In 2024, breaking the tire pressure rules will result in a greater penalty than a ban, underscoring the importance of compliance with technical regulations.
New penalties for the season include an 8-second penalty for infractions in the sprint race and a more severe 16-second penalty in the Grand Prix race. These sanctions are intended to ensure that teams and drivers are fully aware of and adhere to the tire pressure regulations, which are designed to preserve the integrity and safety of racing.
Importantly, the changes to minimum pressure and time penalties reflect the continued commitment of Michelin and MotoGP™ to the continuous development of technical regulations to ensure a competitive, fair and safe racing environment.
In conclusion, the 2024 MotoGP™ season will not only bring changes to the minimum pressure of the front tires, but also the implementation of more serious time penalties, which promises to further increase the safety of the race and the track. The partnership between Michelin and MotoGP™ continues to evolve, demonstrating a mutual commitment to technical excellence and the exciting spectacle of elite motor racing.
