Michelin To Become Exclusive Supplier of The FIM¹ Superbike World Championship Starting In 2027

Michelin announced that, starting in 2027, it will become the exclusive tire supplier for all categories of the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK).

This major commitment marks a new strategic step for the Michelin Group, strengthening its global presence in motorcycle racing, following its successes in MotoGP and MotoE. It is part of a logical approach: to build on technological innovations developed in premier categories and apply them to a championship where the bikes are closer to production models.

"We are very pleased to be able to commit to a world-class motorcycle racing championship starting in 2027," said Matthieu Bonardel, Director of Michelin Motorsport. "The WorldSBK offers an ideal environment to bring our technologies even closer to those used by all riders, whether on the track or on the road. The audience of this championship consists of passionate riders who own or ride super sport motorcycles, and we are committed to delivering high-quality racing entertainment, backed by Michelin’s renowned performance tires."

As the newly appointed exclusive supplier for WorldSBK, Michelin is reaffirming its mission to contribute to the development of tires that combine high performance, long-lasting durability, and accessibility while embracing sustainability through innovations such as the use of renewable and recycled materials. As the motorcycles competing in WorldSBK are directly derived from production models, the technologies developed for this championship can be quickly applied to tire ranges intended for all motorcycle enthusiasts.

Having already achieved success in the WorldSBK championship in the early 2000s — with 12 titles won in an open-competition environment — Michelin is reconnecting with a discipline that perfectly aligns with its innovation-driven DNA focused on serving all riders. This return isn’t just about reliving past success; it’s a strategic move to apply advanced technologies that enhance performance and riding experience, especially in fast-growing markets like Southeast Asia.

Through its involvement in WorldSBK, Michelin will offer manufacturers, teams, and riders its top-level expertise in motorcycle competition, its proven ability to combine sporting performance with environmental responsibility, and the excellence of its technical, development, and performance analysis teams.

¹FIM = Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (International Motorcycling Federation)